An overview of current analytical methodologies for the determination
of sulphonated azo dyes in environmental samples is presented. Convent
ional analytical methods involving liquid chromatography and mass spec
trometry with the thermospray (TSP) interface are reviewed, as well as
the newly developed methods using atmospheric pressure ionisation (AP
I) interfaces. The combination of capillary electrophoresis with mass
spectrometry (CE-MS) as a new alternative for the analysis and confirm
ation of polar compounds (and particularly the sulphonated azo dyes) i
n environmental samples is also discussed. Finally, the extraction and
preconcentration of sulphonated azo dyes from water samples involving
various solid phase extraction cartridges are commented upon. (C) 199
7 Elsevier Science B.V.