DART-MS Spectral Similarity of Infrared Thermally Desorbed Solid Particulate and Solution Cast Propellant Samples

Abstract

Security and forensic applications employ test and reference materials to develop, calibrate, and validate analytical instrumentation such as mass spectrometry for the trace detection and chemical analysis of target analytes. An emerging class of target analytes includes homemade fuel oxidizer explosives based on pyrotechnics, propellants, and powder mixtures. Test materials for these compounds must appropriately and accurately embody the physical and chemical nature of the threat. Precision liquid deposition methods have long been employed for creation of trace level test materials. Mass spectral similarity and chemical signature differences between solid particulate and solution cast (i.e., liquid deposited) propellant samples were investigated by infrared thermal desorption direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (IRTD-DART-MS). Differences in the mass spectra and ion distributions of solid and liquid deposited black powders and black powder substitutes were observed. These differences were attributed to chemical processes (e.g., degradation) and physical differences in the crystal formation, spatial distribution, morphology, and size. The production and deposition of test and reference materials remain critical to developing new technologies and detecting evolving threats.

Applications of ambient ionization mass spectrometry in 2021: An annual review

“…analysed TNT, RDX, PETN and NG (nitroglycerin) using HCD, a plasma‐based technique suitable for the simultaneous detection and quantification of multiple explosives, 72 in addition to ultrasonic cutter blade coupled with DBD for the analysis of explosives and drugs 73 . DART‐MS has been used by multiple groups for explosives detection, including in the evaluation of TATP released from training aids for explosive detection canines, 74 and coupled with infrared thermal desorption for the analysis of black powders and black powder substitutes 75 . PSI has been applied to the analysis of peroxide explosives in biological matrices, highlighting the potential for AIMS to be used to demonstrate exposure to explosive materials in the body 76 .…”

“… 73 DART‐MS has been used by multiple groups for explosives detection, including in the evaluation of TATP released from training aids for explosive detection canines, 74 and coupled with infrared thermal desorption for the analysis of black powders and black powder substitutes. 75 PSI has been applied to the analysis of peroxide explosives in biological matrices, highlighting the potential for AIMS to be used to demonstrate exposure to explosive materials in the body. 76 Similarly, modified versions of PSI have also been used in the detection of chemical warfare agents.…”