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Artifacts in trimethylsilyl derivatization reactions and ways to avoid them
1Eastman Chemical Company, Kingsport, TN 37662-5150, USA. jllittle@eastman.com
Journal of Chromatography. A
|July 10, 1999
Summary
Trimethylsilyl derivatives enhance gas chromatography analysis but can form unexpected by-products. This review details these silylation artifacts and methods to prevent their occurrence.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Trimethylsilyl derivatives are crucial for gas chromatography (GC) of active hydrogen compounds.
- Silylation improves volatility and stability, but unexpected by-products (artifacts) can form.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review identified silylation artifacts and their impact on GC analysis.
- To provide strategies for avoiding artifact formation.
Main Methods:
- Mass spectrometry was used to identify artifacts in laboratory studies.
- Literature review of previously reported silylation artifacts.
Main Results:
- Documented numerous silylation artifacts over 20 years.
- Observed that artifact formation leads to multiple peaks or unexpected components in GC.
Conclusions:
- Artifacts in trimethylsilyl derivatization complicate GC analysis.
- Understanding and avoiding artifact formation is essential for accurate results.