This study developed real time monitoring both of volatile and non-volatile compounds using multi functionalized auto sampler with SPME-GC/MS or online SPE-LC/MS. To real time based water sample introduction to the GC/MS or LC/MS, PAL RTC auto sampler (CTC Analytics AG) was used. Within the allowed dimensions, the syringe of auto sampler is free to move for sampling, it has a feature that can replace the syringe.
For geosmin monitoring, SPME module was attached to the auto sampler. Replaceable syringe tool was combined with 10mL for sampling, 0.1mL for adding internal reference material and SPME. Due to the flexible function set of PAL RTC auto sampler, basic program for real time direct sample introduction and pre-treatment were simply set as following; 1) sampling and transport of 10mL water from water pipe to the sample bottle, 2) spiking internal standard 3) sample mixing, 4) SPME adsorption, 5) desorption and GC/MS run. For algal toxin monitoring, switching valve based online SPE was attached with LC/MS. As a trap column, aQ (particle size 12um, Thermo Fisher Scientific) was adopted. Sequential program for sampling and online SPE-LC/MS is more simple than those of online SPME-GC/MS.
This real time monitoring methodology provides 1) simple instrumentation, 2) harmonized with accredited method for drinking water in Ministry of Environment(MoE) including adding internal standard and salt to the sample for geosmin or adopting online SPE method for microcystins and 3) selective applications for volatile and non-volatile compounds both with GC/MS and LC/MS.