Modern sorbent-based sample preparation methods for the determination of analytes of forensic interest: A dual-tool approach for evaluation of greenness and practical utility

Sample preparation is recognized as the most critical and challenging step in the analytical process, shaping the entire methodology and significantly affecting the accuracy, reliability, and sensitivity of results as well as environmental sustainability. Over the past decade, the emergence of greener and more sustainable sample preparation techniques has provided a viable alternative to conventional methods. This review focuses on three sorbent-based sample preparation techniques viz. cellulose paper-based methods, capsule phase microextraction (CPME), and fabric phase sorptive extraction (FPSE) which have been extensively applied for the analysis of forensically relevant analytes in various complex matrices. Additionally, this review article also highlights the potential future direction of sorbent-based sample preparation techniques in forensic toxicology. In this frame of reference, the recently introduced tools, ComplexMoGAPI for evaluating greenness and BAGI for assessing practicality are applied to scrutinize the strengths and limitations of these analytical methods since their inception in the field.