Critical evaluation of fiber coatings for organotin determination by using solid phase microextraction in headspace mode

In the present work three different SPME fibers have been investigated for simultaneous determination of methyl-, butyl- and phenyltins by using gas chromatography-pulsed flame photometer detection (GC-PFPD). The optimal experimental conditions for each fiber were determined and the respective figures of merit were evaluated. All fiber evaluated presented similar limit of detection (sub ng L−1) and requires two internal standards to reach an acceptable repeatability. However, the CAR-PDMS fiber offers the best compromise between selectivity and sensibility for determination of organotins selected. The developed method was validated for analysis of certified reference material and spiked samples, obtaining satisfactory results. Finally, some contaminated samples were analyzed demonstrating the applicability of developed method for determination of organotin compounds in the environment and for monitoring their biochemical cycle.

► Three SPME coatings were evaluated for organotin determination.
► The optimal condition were determined for each fiber and figures of merit compared.
► The best figures of merit were obtained using CAR-PDMS coating.
► The proposed method was satisfactorily validated analyzing certified and spiked samples.
► Its application demonstrates potential for organotin determination at trace levels.