Detection of gas-phase chemical warfare agents using field-portable gas chromatography–mass spectrometry systems: instrument and sampling strategy considerations

Abstract Selection of sampling methods and GC–MS instrumentation for field analysis of dangerous chemicals should be based on desired performance. Using a combined, man-portable, GC–MS sampler, volatile compounds may be analyzed while in a contaminated atmosphere. Alternatively, a small solid-phase microextraction sampler allows analysis in a nearby clean area with stationary GC–MS instrumentation that offers advantages in sample throughput and the range of samples that may be analyzed.