Analysis of trace amounts of alkenones in complex environmental samples by way of NaBH4/NaBD4 reduction and silylation

► GC-EIMS analysis of silylated alkenols allows quantification of traces of alkenones. ► The technique allows U37K′ values to be calculated for crude lipid extracts. ► Analysis in SIM mode makes the detector 'blind' to coelutants. ► This reduction method is easy to use, highly sensitive and widely applicable.