Hierarchical Cluster Analysis of Matrix Effects on 110 Pesticide Residues in 28 Tea Matrixes

Matrix effects on 110 pesticides in 28 tea matrixes of different varieties and origins by LC/MS/MS were studied, and most of the pesticides exhibited soft and medium signal suppression. To better understand the influence of the tea varieties and the physicochemical characteristics of pesticides on the matrix effects, the multivariate analysis tool called hierarchical cluster analysis was applied. Tea matrixes were grouped into three clusters: unfermented, fermented, and post-fermented teas. Any type of tea can be chosen from each cluster as a corresponding representative matrix within that cluster to make matrix-matched solutions, which could simplify analysis while guaranteeing its accuracy. Matrix effects on most pesticides were similar despite the physicochemical diversities of the pesticides.