Instrument for detecting presence of trace volatiles, comprises sampling probe having receptor adapted protectively to receive coated fiber of solid phase microextraction device for introduction to site to be sampled

NOVELTY - An instrument for detecting the presence of trace volatiles, comprises a sampling probe (10) having a receptor adapted protectively to receive a coated fiber (15) of a solid phase microextraction device (SPME) for introduction to a site to be sampled, and including a mechanism associated with the receptor to direct a fluid stream from the site over the SPME fiber located within receptor, to cause trace volatile(s) to be captured by fiber coating. USE - The invention is for detecting the presence of trace volatiles (claimed) in gaseous, vapor, or liquid phase, particularly those generated by timber decay fungi. It is used for the detection of pest infestations, such as are caused by rats, cockroaches, and termites, and trace volatiles resultant from other natural or synthetic chemical process. ADVANTAGE - The invention provides an aid to early diagnosis, thus minimizing costs associated with fungal damage and disruption caused by remedial investigations. It is portable and thus capable of being deployed, without damage, in the most cramped and inaccessible of sites. It is readily usable and physically robust. It produces rapidly and simply, a result indicative of the presence of trace volatiles.