Absorption detectors searches

The derivatization of fatty acids, and of acidic substances in general, has been a problem in analytical-organic chemistry for many years. The classically used derivatives have been amides and esters. The main problem in using methyl esters of fatty acid in HPLC is that one cannot then use the UV detector, because of inadequate absorption. Thus a search for an alternate method of forming UV-sensitive derivatives has been initiated in several laboratories. 

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