Derivatization of the mutagen MX (3-chloro-4(dichloromethyl)-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone) with butyl alcohols prior to GC-MS analysis.

ABSTRACT

An extremely potent mutagen, 3-chloro-4(dichloromethyl)-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone (MX) is commonly present in chlorinated drinking water. Due to its high mutagenic activity and according to WHO guidelines its concentration should be controlled in drinking waters. Determination of MX is difficult due to the low (ppt) levels at which the compound usually exists in drinking waters. Results obtained with butanols as MX derivatization agents are shown and derivatization with sec-butanol is presented as a method which significantly lowers GC/MS detection levels of MX.