| Abstract: | An automated gas chromatographic headspace method capable of detecting halogenated compounds in cereals, nuts and seeds at levels down to μg kg?1 or less has been developed and evaluated. Commodities were analysed directly without extraction or clean-up and a simple calibration technique offers a rapid screening quantitative analytical method. Comparison of results obtained using an established solvent extraction method with those obtained using the method described showed good quantitative agreement. Minimum detectable quantities were lower using the headspace method for every fumigant residue/commodity studied. The recommended analytical conditions are suitable for examination of further commodities for the fumigant residues examined and for other volatile halocarbons. |
