The direct injection of the headspace vapors above a food
product or a polymer-containing sample is the simplest
methods of isolating volatile compounds.
• However, this method does not provide the sensitivity
needed for trace analysis.
• The instrumental limitations typically limit headspace
injection volumes to 5 mL or less. Therefor, only volatiles
present in the headspace at concentrations >10-7 g/L
headspace would be at detectable levels.