MOLECULAR-SPECIES OF TRI-N-BUTYLTIN COMPOUNDS IN MARINE PRODUCTS

Molecular species of organotin compounds derived from tri-n-butyltin compounds (Bu3Sn+) were investigated at the parts per billion level in marine products. After being divided into flesh, eggs, and liver, the samples were homogenized and extracted. After purification, the extracts were alkylated with methylmagnesium bromide, and the resulting tetrasubstituted tin compounds were identified by gas-liquid chromatography with a flame photometric detector and gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/selective ion monitoring (GC/MS/SIM) and quantified by GC/MS/SIM, using authentic specimens. Analysis of fish samples purchased in several retail stores showed the presence of 13 organotin compounds, including triphenyltin compounds. The products hydroxylated and carboxylated at a butyl moiety of Bu3Sn+ were found in liver, eggs, and flesh. The products hydroxylated at an alkyl side chain of Bu2Sn2+ were mainly found in liver. A carboxylated product was found in liver of only one