Phenoxyacetic acids: separation and quantitative determination.

The various chromatographic methods suitable for the separation and quantitative determination of phenoxyalkyl acid herbicides in environmental samples are reviewed, with special emphasis being placed on sample preparation methods such as liquid-liquid, solid-phase and supercritical fluid extractions. Techniques are classified (high-performance liquid chromatography, gas-liquid chromatography, capillary zone electrophoresis, micellar electrokinetic chromatography) and discussed separately. The advantages and disadvantages of the various preparation and separation methods and their combinations are evaluated.