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.