Functional Group Detection Kit via Fluorescent Derivatization

The patent replaces complex mechanical chromatographic separation systems with a chemical reaction-based detection system. Fluorescent compounds react specifically with carboxylic, thiol, and amine groups to produce measurable fluorescence signals, eliminating the need for chromatographs, electrophoresis equipment, and associated mechanical separation apparatus.

The patent introduces fluorescent compounds as intermediary substances that mediate between the target functional groups and the detection system. These fluorescent intermediaries (such as OPA, NDA, and their derivatives) react with the functional groups to form fluorescent products, enabling indirect but highly sensitive detection without complex equipment.

The patent merges the detection of multiple functional groups (carboxylic, thiol, and amine) into a single integrated fluorescent detection process. Instead of performing separate chromatographic runs for each functional group, the method uses specific fluorescent reagents that can detect all three types of groups simultaneously in one assay, dramatically reducing analysis time.

The patent employs preliminary derivatization reactions where fluorescent compounds are pre-reacted with the functional groups before detection. This preliminary chemical modification converts non-fluorescent functional groups into fluorescent derivatives, enabling direct and rapid fluorescence measurement without time-consuming separation steps.

The patent replaces operationally complex mechanical chromatographic systems with simple fluorescence measurement procedures. The method only requires mixing samples with fluorescent reagents and measuring fluorescence intensity, which can be performed with basic spectrophotometers or even handheld fluorometers, making the technique accessible to non-specialists.

The patent uses inexpensive, stable fluorescent compounds (such as OPA, NDA, and their derivatives) as detection reagents that can be stored and handled easily without specialized conditions. These reagents are more stable and easier to handle than many conventional chromatographic standards, reducing operational complexity and training requirements.

The patent employs inexpensive fluorescent compounds (such as o-phthaldialdehyde, naphthalene-2,3-dicarboxaldehyde, and their derivatives) as detection reagents. These chemicals are commercially available at low costs and can be used in routine analysis without requiring expensive specialized reagents, making the method economically viable for routine environmental and industrial monitoring.

The patent eliminates the need for expensive chromatographic equipment (ion chromatographs, liquid chromatographs, gas chromatographs, capillary electrophoresis systems) by using simple fluorescence measurement. This substitution of complex mechanical systems with optical detection dramatically reduces capital equipment costs and operational expenses.