Validation of a fast gas chromatographic method for the study of semiochemical slow release formulations

The validation of a fast GC-FID analytical method for the quantitative determination of semiochemical sesquiterpenes (E-beta-farnesene and beta-caryophyllene) to be used in an integrated pest management approach is described. Accuracy profiles using total error as decision criteria for validation were used to verify the overall accuracy of the method results within a well defined range of concentrations and to determine the lowest limit of quantification for each analyte. Furthermore it allowed to select a very simple and reliable regression model for calibration curve for the quantification of both analytes as well as to provide measurement uncertainty without any additional experiments. Finally, this validated method was used for the quantification of semiochemicals in slow release formulations. The goal was to verify the protection efficiency of alginate gel beads formulations against oxidation and degradation of sesquiterpenes. The results showed that the alginate beads are adequate slow release devices which protect the bio-active molecules during at least twenty days.