Nanofibers as advanced sorbents for on-line solid phase extraction in liquid chromatography: A tutorial

Polymers in nanofiber format promise a great potential as sorbents for extraction techniques. This tutorial provides an overview of direct coupling of extraction techniques based on nanofibers to liquid chromatography. Arrangements of the fibers in conventional extraction cartridges are demonstrated. Selection of suitable nanomaterials according to their surface density, wettability, and mechanical stability is proposed and personal experience of the authors commented. Optimization of on-line extraction procedure, practical aspects, technical problems, pitfalls, pros, and cons of using nanofibers for extraction in high-pressure chromatography systems are also discussed and several examples presented. The following text comprehensively summarizes numerous reports that dealt with the topic. Future perspectives of advanced nanofiber materials and approaches that concern polymer fibers modifications are also included.