Headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME)

Headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME) is a technique used to analyze volatile compounds in samples like food, beverages, or biological fluids. A thin fiber coated with a special material is exposed to the "headspace," the air space above the sample. Volatile compounds naturally migrate from the sample into the headspace and then onto the fiber. After absorption, the fiber is transferred to a laboratory device for analysis, typically via gas chromatography, to identify and quantify the compounds. This method is solvent-free, efficient, and sensitive, making it useful for detecting flavors, scents, or contaminants.