Developments in Gas Chromatography - Forensic Applications of Gas Chromatography - page 73

Table 7.1 Examples of Common Derivatisation Reagents and Their Applications in Forensic Analysis

Derivatisation
Procedure

Compound Type Reagent a Derivative Comments

Alkaloids Acylation HFBA Heptaluorobutylamides Ideal with FID and ECD. Used to identify

amphetamines, phencyclidine and catacholamines.

Alkaloids Acylation TFAI Triluoracetates Good for trace analysis with ECD.

Barbiturates Silylation BSA Trimethylsilyl amides Highly reactive, universal reagent.

Benzodiazepines Silylation BSTFA Trimethylsilyl amides Highly reactive, universal reagent; more volatile

than BSA.

Cannabinoids Acylation P F PA Pentaluoropropionates Use with alcohols and phenols. Derivatives volatile

for FID and ECD.

Steroids Silylation TMSI + pyridine Trimethylsilyl esters Use with hindered and unhindered steroids.

HFBA = heptaluorobutryric anhydride; TFAI = 1-(triluoroacetyl(imidazole); BSA = N,O -bis(trimethylsilyl)acetamide; BSTFA =
bis(trimethylsilyl)triluoroacetamide; PFPA = pentaluoropropionic anhydride; TMSI = trimethylsilylimidazole.

a