Simplified reversed-phase conditions for the determination of benzimidazole fungicides in fruits by high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection

An analytical method was developed for determination of benzimidazole fungicides (carbendazim and thiabendazole) in fruits. Analyses were performed by HPLC with simple operating conditions. The use of a Kromasil new-generation silica-based stationary phase needed neither pH regulators nor competing compounds, usually added to the mobile phase to analyse basic compounds on reversed stationary phase. Validation studies proved that the chromatographic method had good repeatability, reproducibility and limit of detection. Sample preparation involved extraction with acetone followed by solvent partitioning with dichloromethane and petroleum ether. Extracts were purified through selective diol-bonded silica cartridges, replacing the usual laborious liquid-liquid partitioning procedure. Validation studies proved that the global method had satisfactory repeatability and recovery. Limits of detection were about 0.06 mg/kg.