Solid phase extraction (SPE) stands as a valuable sample preparation technique for water samples, utilized in the extraction of substances such as PFAS and semi-volatiles from drinking water. Despite its efficacy, SPE encounters challenges in non-drinking water matrices where solid particles can obstruct SPE cartridges, prolonging extraction or necessitating multiple cartridges per sample. EPA Method 1633 recently introduced glass wool to address this issue; however, manually adding wool can be laborious and inconsistent. This presentation introduces an integrated filter aid for SPE cartridges, enhancing consistency compared to glass wool. Incorporating the filter aid mitigates matrix-related clogging, leading to expedited extraction, reduced cartridge consumption, and more reliable analytical outcomes.
Mitigating Matrix Issues via Filter Aid to Improve Solid-Phase Extraction Methods
05 Nov 2025
Authors
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Colton Myers is the R&D manager for sample preparation at Restek Corporation with over 10 years of experience in product development and application innovation, particularly in solid phase microextraction (SPME) and volatile analysis. He has made contributions across various industries, authoring multiple peer-reviewed publications. Starting his career in quality control before transitioning to the GC Innovations team, Colton now leads a team dedicated to advancing sample preparation and collection technologies. He holds a BS in chemistry from Juniata College.
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Jason Hoisington received his bachelor’s degree in general science with a focus on chemistry from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. He worked for SGS Environmental for seven years in environmental soil and water testing, developing methods for the analysis of volatiles and semivolatile organics to include pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). In 2012, Jason moved on to lab and application support for Dow Chemical Company, providing advanced analytical troubleshooting and method development. In 2019, Jason joined Restek and has focused on air applications.
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Alexis is a scientist in the sample preparation R&D department. Her primary focus is SPE in the environmental sector. In her previous role at Restek as an LC manufacturing chemist, she developed skills related to synthesizing silica particles, bonding stationary phases, and optimizing procedural workflows. Alexis attended Delaware Valley University where she earned her BS in wildlife biology.
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