Simple Determination of Double-Bond Positions in Long-Chain Olefins by Cross-Metathesis

Abstract

Cut, paste, and measure: The positions of double bonds in unsaturated long-chain compounds can be easily determined by chemical derivatization using a cross-metathesis reaction and chromatography–mass spectrometry. The produced olefins have distinct physicochemical properties suitable for LC/MS or GC/MS analysis that depend on the cross-metathesis partner used. This method is operationally simple and applicable at a sub-milligram scale.