Automated single-column analysis of amino acids using ascorbic acid as reductant for air-stable ninhydrin

The procedure for operation of a constant-temperature, single-column automated amino acid analyser in the sub-nanomole range is described. The cycle time for a complete analysis is 90 min including equilibration for next cycle. Eluting buffers can be made in the laboratory or commercially available concentrates (Pico-Buffers) can be used. A novel reducing agent, ascorbic acid, incorporated into the column buffers was used to reduce air-stable ninhydrin.