Speciation of organotin compounds in fish samples

Abstract

The optimization of extraction and determination of organotin compounds in fish samples using aqueous ethylation, gas chromatographic separation and on-line quartz furnace atomic absorption spectrometric detection (Eth–GC–AAS) has been studied. Digestion with 0.5 mol l–1 methanolic HCl or 0.5 mol l–1 methanolic acetic acid assisted by sonication or microwave agitation is proposed. Limits of detection of Sn of 2–4 ng g–1(fresh mass) for methyltin and butyltin compounds could be achieved. The analysis of fresh samples is mandatory to avoid any possible losses of organotin species during drying procedures.