In the development
of modern analytical workflows, parameters such
as sample turnaround time, cost of analysis, and ease of use must
be prioritized. Automation enables reductions in total analysis time,
human intervention, and cost per sample. In this report, a suitable
automated coated blade spray (CBS) workflow is proposed for the screening
and quantitation of multiple substances (i.e., drugs of abuse and
pesticides) in complex matrices. In an attempt to reduce the total
sample analysis time, several parameters were investigated, including
tandem mass spectrometry (MS) dwell time, CBS spray time, and extraction
time. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) method parameters are explored,
such as reduction of extraction time for increased signal-to-noise.
Model compounds with a moderately wide range of molecular weights
(150–500 Da), polarities, and structural diversity were selected
in order to monitor analytical figures of merit during method optimization.
The resultant automated CBS method proved capable of analyzing the
model compounds in human urine in under 10 s total analysis time with
excellent accuracy (95–120%) and precision (RSD < 12%).
As an application, an automated method for the screening and quantitation
of more than 150 pesticides from apple juice was demonstrated on both
triple quadrupole and orbitrap instruments in under 15 s total sample
analysis time.