White Analytical Chemistry: a Review of Current Developments

White analytical chemistry (WAC) redefines analytical research by embedding principles of validation efficiency, environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness into its core. As a framework emphasizing transparency, sustainability, and ethical accountability, WAC inspires transformative advancements in analytical practices. By integrating green chemistry, data integrity, and social impact principles, WAC fosters a new era of responsible science. Innovative applications like direct immersion solid phase microextraction paired with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry exemplify the power of WAC. This approach enables eco-friendly, efficient, and precise forensic toxicological analyses, significantly improving the detection of psychotropic drugs in complex biological samples while minimizing harmful chemical use. Frameworks such as the RGB12 model further enhance WAC scope by optimizing sustainable methodologies for applications spanning pharmaceuticals, environmental studies, and food analysis. Emerging technologies like ultrasonic-assisted extraction, and eco-conscious solvents such as Cyrene exemplify green analytical chemistry principles, offering energy-efficient mineral extraction and reduced environmental footprints without compromising analytical performance. Likewise, design of experiments and analytical quality by design optimize drug analysis methods, cutting waste while employing low-toxicity solvents for sustainable high-performance thin-layer chromatography and reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography techniques. Gradient-based calibration strategies—gradient ratio standard addition method, standard dilution analysis, and H-point standard addition method—reinforce WAC transformative potential by advancing precision, adaptability, and sustainability in complex matrices. Together, these innovations position WAC as a trailblazer in reshaping analytical science for a greener, more sustainable future.