Derivatization and solid-phase microextraction

The use of derivatization in the solid phase or in solution in analytical methods based on solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has made possible low detection limits (LODs) to determine substances with poor chromatographic behavior, high reactivity and/or volatility or thermal instability. The most common use of derivatization in SPME applications is the treatment of polar compounds to increase their recoveries from the sample matrix. The implementation of solid-phase derivatization procedures has permitted not only enhancement of recoveries, but also improvement in the separation, selectivity and/or sensitivity of analytical methods. This review covers analytical methods that involve derivatization and SPME. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd.