Supercritical Fluid Extraction as a Sample Introduction Method for Chromatography

This paper reviews some of the theoretical considerations surrounding the use of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) as the means of introducing samples into chromatographic systems. Specifically, we discuss the effects of various instrument features and methods on the chromatography: The effects of linear velocity, cell volume, solute trapping, density, and the use of modifiers are discussed. The data indicate that SFE can be fine-tuned into a selective sample preparation/injection method for chromatography. In addition, results obtained by coupling the SFE to both gas chromatography (GC) and supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) are presented. Samples include environmental, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.