Determination of 2-Chloroethylphosphonic Acid in Apples, Cherries, Onions, and Pineapple Pulp

A method for the determination of the growth regulator, 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid in apples, cherries, onions, and pineapple pulp is described. The samples are mascerated and extracted with methanol. The residue is methylated under acid conditions and analyzed by gas chromatography with a alkali thermionic detector. Recovery data are presented at 0.1 and 0.12 ppm. The method is sensitive to about 0.05 ppm.