Application of response surface methodology (RSM) for determination of pesticide residues in water

Abstract

For determination of pesticide residues in water, the extraction has a very important place, considering that many factors may significantly influence on the extraction. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of sample volume and solvent ratio (dichloromethane/n-hexane) on extraction yield of herbicide acetochlor from water. The extraction of pesticide from water was carried out with Cig disc. Analyses were performed using gas chromatography/electron-capture detection (GC/ECD). A response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum extraction conditions. The results show a good fit to the proposed model (R>=0.981). This optimized method was confirmed with recovery test under recommended conditions and average value of the recovery was >95 %. The experimental values agreed with those predicted, thus indicating suitability of the used model and the success of RSM in optimizing the investigated extraction conditions.