System and method of matrix accelerated vacuum-assisted sorbent extraction for improved sample preparation prior to GCMS analysis

A method of preparing a sample in a closed system under vacuum, the method comprising:

• at the closed system, the system comprising a sample container, a sorbent positioned within a zone C, wherein the sorbent is configured to extract the sample from a vapor of a matrix of the sample, a computer temperature control system, while the sample is disposed in the sample container and a bottom of the sample container is positioned within a zone A and a headspace of the sample container is positioned within a zone B, a first heater positioned in the zone A, and a second heater positioned in the zone C:
• controlling the first heater, with the computer temperature control system, a first temperature to a first portion of the sample container to include boiling of the matrix of the sample at the zone A;
• maintaining, with the computer temperature control system, a second temperature within a zone B between the zone A and the zone C, the zone B including a second portion of the sample container, via a combination of the computer temperature control system and condensation of the matrix of the sample in the zone B, wherein the computer temperature control system comprises one or more heat sinks, fans, or electronic cooling systems, wherein the second temperature is less than the first temperature;
• and
• controlling the second heater, with the computer temperature control system, a third temperature that is greater than the second temperature to the sorbent at the zone C such that the vapor of the matrix of the sample is sustained in zone C, the zone C being above the zone A and the zone B and does not overlap zone A and/or zone B;
• and
• forming a vacuum-tight seal between the sample container, a vacuum sleeve, and a sample extraction device, creating a closed system in which mass cannot enter or exit the closed system once initial headspace compounds have been evacuated.