Custodion Sampling Devices

Significance of the topic

In-field chemical analysis requires robust sampling tools to obtain reliable results under challenging conditions. The use of specialized sampling devices simplifies the collection and direct injection of samples into portable gas chromatograph–mass spectrometers (GC/MS), enabling rapid decision-making in environmental, forensic and public safety contexts.

Goals and overview of the study

This article presents the features, performance and application areas for the Custodion line of sampling devices when paired with a portable GC/MS system. It aims to demonstrate how these tools streamline field operations by reducing sample preparation time and enhancing analytical flexibility.

Methodology and instrumentation

• Device types: Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME), Coiled Microextraction (CME) and Needle Trap (NT) samplers.
• Portable GC/MS system: Torion T-9 GC/MS for on-site chemical identification and quantitation.
• Materials: Hardened plastic handles with push-button triggers; PDMS/DVB fibers for SPME; stainless steel coil for CME; tri-bed sorbent fiber for NT.
• Sampling modes: Passive extraction, headspace or direct immersion for SPME; direct liquid immersion for CME; active sampling with built-in pumping for NT.

Main results and discussion

The Custodion devices deliver consistent, high-quality sample collection under field conditions. Key observations:

• SPME samplers concentrate volatile and semi-volatile compounds without solvents, suitable for environmental water analysis, forensic investigations and food flavor profiling.
• CME devices effectively trap dissolved solids and semi-volatile polar compounds, making them ideal for forensic drug screening, essential oil characterization and pesticide residue monitoring.
• NT samplers provide quantitative trace-level detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with internal standard integration, supporting narcotics detection, air quality assessment and toxic industrial chemical monitoring.

Benefits and practical applications

• Minimal sample preparation reduces turnaround time for on-site decisions.
• Robust construction ensures reliable performance in protective gear.
• Modular approach allows selection of sampler based on target analyte and matrix.
• Direct coupling to portable GC/MS yields immediate chemical identification and quantitation in diverse scenarios such as environmental emergencies, forensic casework and field-based quality control.

Future trends and applications

Advancements in microextraction techniques and portable mass spectrometry are expected to further enhance field analysis capabilities. Potential developments include:

• Integration of automated sampling and analysis workflows for reduced operator intervention.
• Expanded sorbent chemistries for broader analyte classes, including polar and high-boiling compounds.
• Miniaturized detectors and data processing algorithms driven by artificial intelligence to improve sensitivity and selectivity.
• Wireless connectivity for real-time data transmission and remote decision support.

Conclusion

The Custodion line of samplers offers a versatile, robust solution for direct field extraction and injection into portable GC/MS instruments. Their ease of use, adaptability and reliable performance make them valuable tools for environmental monitoring, forensic investigations and rapid threat assessment.

Used instrumentation

• Torion T-9 portable GC/MS system
• Custodion Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) samplers with PDMS/DVB fibers
• Custodion Coiled Microextraction (CME) stainless steel coil samplers
• Custodion Needle Trap (NT) samplers with tri-bed sorbent fibers (Tenax TA, Carboxen 1016 and 1003) and internal standard module SPS 3