Recent advances in microextraction techniques for sensitive determination of synthetic musks in complex samples

Synthetic musks (SMs) are commonly found in everyday household items and are introduced into the ecosystem via domestic wastewater, rendering them notable contaminants in both the environment and food sources. Given the intricate nature of sample matrices and the low concentrations of these compounds, the utilization of more sensitive and reliable techniques is imperative for sample preparation. Microextraction, characterized by its high efficiency and stability for environmentally friendly analysis, has demonstrated superiority in various studies and has shown advancements in structural design and the application of novel materials in recent years. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in microextraction techniques for the analysis of SMs, focusing on different sample types from 2017 to 2023. The applications of different microextraction techniques in different samples are summarized, highlighting both the major advancements and notable limitations. The discussed techniques include directly immersion solid-phase microextraction, headspace solid-phase microextraction, stir bar sorptive microextraction, thin film microextraction, fabric phase sorptive extraction, and dispersive solid-phase microextraction. Liquid phase microextraction methods, such as hollow fiber liquid-liquid microextraction, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction, vortex-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction, and ultrasound-assisted electronic membrane extraction, provide alternative approaches for analyzing complex samples. The utilization of modern methodologies and innovative materials underscores the growing emphasis on green chemistry and environmentally friendly practices in the sample preparation of small molecules.