Application of analytical standards in method development: selected chlorinated phenols and herbicides

Pure analytical standards are key components in the successful development of accurate analytical methods. When such compounds are unavailable commercially, a laboratory synthesis activity can provide such materials for use in method development. An example of such an approach is the synthesis of ethyl ethers of chlorinated phenols and ethyl esters of several phenoxy herbicides. Individual synthesis steps and the characterization of such materials are described. The use of such analytical standards in method development is vital for defining method characteristics. In addition, such materials are helpful in diagnosing chromatographic and mass spectral problems in the course of this work. Key mass spectral information including parent and daughter scans obtained from these analytical standards by using tandem mass spectrometry provide the basis for a new analytical method with increased sensitivity and specificity.