ABSTRACT
Chemometric studies require data for many samples. The particular sample preparation/extraction technique needed depends on the information desired, the sample matrix, the stability and levels of the analytes of interest, and the capability of the chosen instrumental technique(s). The preparation of samples for analysis can be more tedious and time consuming than the actual instrumental measurement. Simultaneous Distillation and Extraction (SDE) can be used for both liquid and solid samples. Solid samples are steam distilled from an aqueous suspension. By putting an adsorbent trap in the condensate return path, the SDE technique can be modified to Simultaneous Distillation and Adsorption (SDA). The characteristics of SDA are similar to SDE with respect to selection of operating conditions and sample throughput. Liquid-liquid extractions and liquid-solid extractions are the classical solvent extractions. Common devices range from the separatory funnel to the Soxhlet extractor. Devices such as the Soxhlet extractor must be allowed to operate for several hours to exhaustively extract the sample.
