Analysis of solid samples by capillary electrophoresis using a gas extraction sampling device in a flow system

A gas extraction sampling device integrated in a continuous Row system (CFS ) was coupled to a capillary electrophoresis equipment (CE) for the direct determination of trimethylamine (TMA) and related amines in fish sample. Th is arrangement allowed the direct introduction and treatment of these solid samples with a high level of automation. The amine compounds were extracte d from fish samples in the sampling unit, then they were conditioned in the CFS and injected into the CE vials via a programmable arm. Methylamine, di methylamine, trimethylamine, ethylamine, propylamine, diethylamine and trie thylamine were separated and quantified. The concentration of trimethylamin e (the major amine in fish) in the analysed real sample was ranged from 20 to 250 mg g(-1). (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.