Rapid analysis of amino acids using pre-column derivatization.

A new approach to the pre-column derivatization and analysis of amino acids is described. The method is based upon formation of a phenylthiocarbamyl derivative of the amino acids. The derivatization method is rapid, efficient, sensitive, and specific for the analysis of primary and secondary amino acids in protein hydrolyzates. The liquid chromatographic system allows for the rapid, bonded-phase separation with ultraviolet detection of the common amino acids with 12-min analysis time and a 1-pmol sensitivity.