Pickering Laboratories Pinnacle PCX - CARBAMATES

6.3
Section 6
ApplicAtions
Pinnacle Operators Manual
Pickering Laboratories Inc.
CARBAMATES
6.3 Introduction
6.3 Background
6.3-2 Basic Sample Preparation
6.3-3 Reagent Preparation
6.3-5 Post-column Conditions
6.3-5 Analytical Procedure
6.3-5 Sample Chromatograms and Gradient Programs
6.3-12 Precautions
6.3-13 Notes
Introduction
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with post-column derivatization is a technique for rendering
analytes more detectable than they would otherwise be in their native forms. Post-column derivatization can
give improved sensitivity or better selectivity (reduction of interference) leading to lower detection limits.
The Pickering Laboratories Pinnacle PCX was developed to facilitate the determination of carbamate
insecticides, meeting or exceeding performance requirements of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) Method 531.1/531.2, and the AOAC International Protocol 29.A05:
• High sensitivity: detection limits of 0.1–0.5ng (or 0.2–1ppb levels for drinking water) can be routinely
achieved.
• Selectivity (specificity): only N-methylcarbamates and N-methyl carbamoyloximes plus components reactive
to OPA under the specified operating conditions are detected.
• Minimum sample preparation: drinking water can be directly injected into the HPLC after filtration. No pre-
extraction or sample cleanup is required.
• The analysis is easily automated for unattended analyses with the addition of an autosampler.
There are a number of carbamate pesticide compounds employed worldwide which are not included in the 11
compounds mandated by USEPA Method 531.1/531.2 and AOAC Protocol 29.A05. The Pickering Laboratories
Carbamate column can separate as many as 23 compounds.
Background
Carbamates, a class of highly effective commercial insecticides, are used worldwide to protect crops from insect
pests. Applied directly to food crops such as grains, fruit, and vegetables, carbamates may seep into drinking
water sources through agricultural runoff. In addition, if food crops are harvested too soon after application,