The first method for quantitative trace analysis of peroxide-based explosives is described. A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography method with post-column UV irradiation and fluorescence detection for the analysis of triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD) has been developed. After separation, the analytes are degraded photochemically to hydrogen peroxide, which is subsequently determined on the basis of the peroxidase-catalyzed oxidation of p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid to the fluorescent dimer. This two-step reaction scheme in combination with the respective blanks (photochemical reactor switched off) provides for high selectivity. The limits of detection were 2 x 10(-6) mol/L for both TATP and HMTD, respectively. The method has been applied to the analysis of real samples.

A rapid and simple field test for the detection of triacetone-triperoxide (TATP) and hexamethylenetriperoxidediamine (HMTD), two explosives which find significant illegal use, has been developed. Unknown samples are first treated with a catalase solution to remove hydrogen peroxide traces, in order to provide selectivity towards peroxide-based bleaching agents which are contained in commercial laundry detergents. Subsequently, the peroxide-based explosives are decomposed via UV irradiation, thus yielding hydrogen peroxide, which is determined by the horseradish peroxidase (POD) catalysed formation of the green radical cation of 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonate (ABTS). The limits of detection for this method are 8 x 10(-6) mol dm(-3) for TATP and 8 x 10(-7) mol dm(-3) for HMTD, respectively. As an option, p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (pHPAA) may be used as peroxidase substrate, resulting in lower limits of detection (8 x 10(-7) mol dm(-3) for TATP and HMTD). The complete method uses a mobile setup to be applied under field conditions.

The detection of hidden explosives has undergone an enormous development due to an increased desire for safety and the increased terrorist attacks in the last few years. This development was made possible in particular by the rapid advances in the development of powerful analytical techniques in general. These technologies. however, must be specially adapted for the problems of explosives detection. These problems encompass. for example. the large variety of different explosives, the camouflage of explosive devices, and the complexity of the composition of suspicious objects. Frequent an-travelers have most certainly ~~~ already been confronted with a so-called explosives detection apparatus. Baggage controls at airports are a very important and well-known example of the application of detection technologies. This example also serves to demonstrate the high technological requirements, such as the variability of the object to be examined and a control procedure for a sealed object that must be completed with high reliability in a short period of time. The search for explosive devices or weapons cannot, however, be limited to the recognition of an external appearance with the help of X-ray imaging. These days, explosive devices, in particular, can readily be installed and hidden in objects of daily life by the use of tiny electric and electronic elements. Therefore, in addition to the application of X-ray imaging, the use of other technologies becomes necessary. The following article describes and discusses methods and scientific limits of explosives detection under the precondition of possible use at security checkpoints.

Hiddenetecting hidden explosives is essential for areas or installations that are likely targets for bomb attacks, such as baggage control areas at airports, government buildings, industrial plants, and postal service facilities. Bombs vary widely in size, shape, and material, and experience has shown that 184