Demonstrating the relationship of the basic theory of solid-phase extraction (SPE) to chromatography, this comprehensive reference illustrates how SPE techniques significantly contribute to the preparation of samples for a wide variety of analytical techniques. SPE is used for clean-up, extraction and concentration of semi volatile or non-volatile analytes. Retention methods include reversed phase, normal phase, ion exchange and adsorption and choice may depend on the analytes and sorbents used. Features include automation, manifold design,, elution volume, and bead size. SPE procedures are used not only to extract traces of organic compounds from environmental samples but also to remove the interfering components of the complex matrices in order to obtain a cleaner extract containing the analytes of interest. It provides step-by-step details on the applications of SPE to environmental matrices, broad-spectrum drug screening, veterinary drug abuse, pharmaceutical drug development, biological samples, and high-throughput screening. The book contains helpful reference charts, tables of solvent properties, selectivities, molecular acid/base properties, and more.