Rapid analysis of tristyrylphenol ethoxylates in cucumber-field system using supercritical fluid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Tristyrylphenol ethoxylates (TSPxEOs), nonionic surfactant adjuvants, are widely used to replace alkylphenols in many agricultural formulations. Herein, a rapid and sensitive method based on a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe "QuEChERS" and supercritical fluid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (SFC-MS/MS) method was developed to quantify TSPxEOs in cucumber, leaves, and soil. Following optimization, the tested oligomers were fully separated within 8 min. The matrix-matched calibration standards showed satisfactory linearity with coefficients of determination (R-2) >= 0.991. The limits of quantification (LOQs: 0.001-0.048 mu g kg(-1)) were excellent for TSPxEOs (x=6-29). The average recoveries at three (low, medium, and high) fortification levels were ranged between 62.5% and 112.9% with relative standard deviations (RSDs) <= 20.0% for TSPxEOs (x=6-29) in various matrices. The method was successfully applied to determine TSPxEOs residual levels in field-incurred samples. Conclusively, the developed method is versatile and could be used for monitoring TSPxEOs in food and environmental samples.