Gas chromatograph mass spectrometers (GC-MS) capable of excellent qualitative measurements are used in the analysis of aroma components in foods and beverages. The convenient sampling methods of SPME (solid-phase microextraction) and HS (headspace extraction) are increasingly used for sample introduction. However, sample introduction methods such as these can suffer from insufficient sensitivity when analyzing some aroma components.

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The SPME Arrow method was developed as a new sample introduction option for the AOC-6000 Multifunctional Autosampler to address this shortcoming. The larger sorption phase volume compared to conventional SPME fibres allows the SPME Arrow to achieve high enrichment of volatile components and serve as a solution for applications where sensitivity was previously lacking.

This article presents the results of analyzing coffee aroma components using the SPME Arrow.

Sample Introduction Using the SPME Arrow

The SPME Arrow enables analysis at high sensitivities due to approximately 5 to 20 times more sorption phase than conventional SPME fibres (Fig. 1). The thick and robust structure of the SPME Arrow also provides higher durability over conventional SPME fibres.

Fig. 1 Comparison of SPME Arrow and Conventional SPME fibres.

Sample and Analysis Conditions

A sample of 2 g of commercially-available ground coffee beans were weighed out, placed into a 20 mL vial, and set in the AOC-6000. Table 1 lists the analysis conditions. For comparison, analysis was also performed using the conventional SPME method.

Analysis Results

Fig. 2 shows the analysis results for the SPME Arrow and SPME fibres. Known aroma components of coffee that were detected include short-chain aldehydes, phenols, pyridines, and pyrazines in addition to multiple sulfurbased compounds. Compared to the conventional SPME fibre, the SPME Arrow enabled high enrichment and analysis of the aroma components. Fig. 3 shows a comparison of the mass chromatogram peak area of several aroma components.

Conclusion

In contrast to conventional SPME fibres, analysis of trace components that prove difficult with SPME can be achieved using the SPME Arrow, which is coated with a larger volume of sorption phase.