Abstract: A system and method for trapping and collecting volatile compounds is described. The system and method generally include a trapping column including adsorption materials positioned within a lumen of the trapping column, an oven for heating the trapping column, and a cold-trap condenser. When a sample containing a volatile compound is passed through the lumen of the trapping column, the volatile compound is captured on or in the adsorption material. The captured volatile compound is subsequently released from the trapping column by simultaneously heating the column in the oven while a gas is pushed through the lumen of the column, and the released volatile compound is collected in the cold-trap condenser.