NCJ Number
162850
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 41 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1996) Pages: 12-22
Date Published
1996
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This report describes how solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been adapted for the analysis of gasoline in fire debris.
Abstract
Compared to traditional passive headspace concentration (activated charcoal strip), the SPME method described here has a comparable cost; is highly automated; is faster and simpler; and has a higher sensitivity. The method also eliminates the need for the highly flammable and toxic solvent carbon disulfide. The SPME method extracts organic compounds from aqueous or gaseous samples into sorbent-coated silica fibers which can be transferred directly to the injector of a gas chromatograph. Other liquid residues, ranging from alcohols to diesel fuel, have been successfully sampled by the method. Optimization of the injection parameters, including cryogenic focusing, and other variables, including the SPME fiber film thickness and type as well as the extraction temperature, is currently being investigated in an attempt to further improve the SPME method. Figures, tables, references