Membrane Techniques in Analytical Applications: Developments and Recent Advances

Abstract

The article first presents an overview of the various membrane‐based systems and their role in analytical applications. This is followed by a systematic review of the various membrane extraction methods used to determine various compounds in different matrices in chemical, environmental, and biological applications. The reviewed methods include supported liquid membrane (SLM) extraction, microporous membrane liquid‐liquid extraction (MMLLE), polymeric membrane extraction (PME), semipermeable membrane devices (SPMDs), membrane‐assisted sorbent extraction (MASE), membrane extraction with a sorbent interface (MESI), and membrane inlet mass spectrometry (MIMS). Theory and principles, the possibility of combining membrane extraction methods with methods of final determination, and applications are discussed in detail. Emphasis is placed on the attractiveness of membrane‐based extraction techniques in terms of the challenging parameters and design aspects that must be considered when coupling membrane‐based extraction systems to on‐line or off‐line analytical systems. A section is devoted to familiarize analytical chemists who work with liquid samples with the practical aspects of the reviewed membrane extraction techniques. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of the various techniques are discussed.