Sequential analysis of dimethyl sulfur compounds in seawater

A sequential method for the determination of dimethyl sulfur compounds, including dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), in seawater samples has been developed. Detection limit of 2.5 pmol of DMS in 25 mL sample, corresponding to 0.10 nmol/L, was achieved. Recoveries for dimethyl sulfur compounds were in the range of 68.6–78.3%. The relative standard deviations (R.S.D.s) for DMS, DMSP and DMSO determination were 3.0, 5.4 and 7.4%, respectively.