Routine Analysis of Polar Pesticides in Water at Low Levels by Ion Chromatography

The analysis of polar ionic pesticides in surface and drinking water as well as food and beverages has become a controversial issue in recent years. The development of genetically modified organism (GMO) crops tolerant to glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine) and glufosinate ((RS)-2-amino4-(hydroxy(methyl)phosphonoyl)butanoic acid), for example, promoted the use of these broad spectrum herbicides. In addition, glyphosate is used as a crop desiccant and to suppress weeds in parks and at roadsides. Consequently, polar pesticides are found in foods as residues and in the environment as contaminants of surface waters and soils.