Analysis of Aminoacetonitrile in Wastewater Using Ultra-performance Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography Coupled with Tandem MassSpectrometry

Background: Aminoacetonitrile is a toxic compound commonly found in industrial wastewater. It poses significant risks to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Accurate monitoring of its presence in wastewater is crucial for environmental protection and public health. Objective: This study aimed to develop a sensitive and reliable method for quantifying aminoacetonitrile in wastewater using Ultra-performance Hydrophilic Interaction Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Methods: UPLC-MS/MS with an Agilent HILIC column for chromatographic separation and a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer in electrospray ionization mode for detection were employed. The process was optimized for linearity, sensitivity, and precision, with a linear range of 0.25 to 100 ng·mL-1 and limits of detection and quantification at 0.1 ng·mL-1 and 0.25 ng·mL-1, respectively. Results: The method exhibited high recovery rates (85–115%) and low relative standard deviations (2–10%), indicating good accuracy and precision. The chromatographic separation and mass spectrometry detection achieved excellent specificity for aminoacetonitrile in wastewater, with no interference from other compounds. Conclusion: This UPLC-MS/MS method is simple, sensitive, and accurate, providing a reliable tool for the determination of aminoacetonitrile in wastewater. It ensures compliance with environmental safety standards, offering an effective approach to mitigate the ecological and health risks posed by this compound.