A particle-into-liquid sampler (PILS) was applied to the collection of atmospheric aerosol particles for the analysis of [alpha]-pinene and its oxidation products. A cyclone and four denuders were coupled to the PILS to eliminate large particles and minimize the negative effects of gas-phase compounds. The PILS setup, sampling time, number and quality of denuders, sample pretreatment and analysis were optimized. Pinonaldehyde, [alpha]-pinene, pinic acid and cis-pinonic acid were selected for the investigation. The results showed that the PILS is suitable for the sampling of biogenic aerosols because oxidation, evaporation and adsorption, which are the most important sources for artifacts in filter and impactor sampling, can be minimized. In addition, a short sampling time and capability for on-line analysis of major organic compounds in aerosols make this a promising technique for obtaining reliable information about particle composition with the good time resolution. In addition, the PILS can be on-line coupled to mass spectrometry. Advantages and disadvantages of the PILS in regard to the analysis of organic compounds are discussed.