Matrix Solid-Phase Disperion

Matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) is an extremely simple, fast and effective technique of sample preparation, in which sample destruction, homogenization and extraction takes place simultaneously in a single step of the MSPD procedure. This technique has been known for nearly 30 years. At that time, new types of sorbents, abrasive materials and extraction fluids were introduced to the MSPD procedure, and the process itself began to be assisted by ultrasounds, vortexing or microwaves. The result of these improvements is far-reaching miniaturization accompanied by greater isolation efficiency per unit of time achieved using more ecological and economical analytical procedures. Due to its flexibility and versatility, the MSPD technique is currently being implemented in various research laboratories for the isolation of endo- and exogenous compounds, including hazardous or prohibited compounds, volatile and non-volatile, present in various concentrations not only in solid but also in semi-solid and viscous samples, which can be generally grouped into environmental, biological, pharmaceuticals, food and everyday products samples. This chapter outlines the various analytical challenges where MSPD is useful and the sorbents that are currently being used to meet these challenges, with particular emphasis on new research areas where the MSPD process has come into use.