A field test for the detection of peroxide-based explosives

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Forensic Science
• Chemical Detection

Background:

• Triacetone-triperoxide (TATP) and hexamethylenetriperoxidediamine (HMTD) are hazardous peroxide-based explosives with significant illicit use.
• Existing detection methods may lack the speed, simplicity, or selectivity required for field applications.
• Interference from peroxide-based bleaching agents in laundry detergents necessitates a selective detection approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid, simple, and selective field test for detecting TATP and HMTD.
• To establish a mobile method applicable under field conditions for explosives detection.
• To achieve sensitive detection limits for both TATP and HMTD.

Main Methods:

• Samples are treated with catalase to remove interfering hydrogen peroxide.
• Peroxide explosives are decomposed using UV irradiation, generating detectable hydrogen peroxide.
• Hydrogen peroxide is quantified via horseradish peroxidase (POD)-catalyzed oxidation of 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonate (ABTS) or p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (pHPAA).

Main Results:

• The method achieves limits of detection of 8 x 10⁻⁶ mol dm⁻³ for TATP and 8 x 10⁻⁷ mol dm⁻³ for HMTD using ABTS.
• Using pHPAA as a substrate lowers the detection limits to 8 x 10⁻⁷ mol dm⁻³ for both TATP and HMTD.
• The developed procedure is suitable for mobile field deployment.

Conclusions:

• A selective and sensitive field test for TATP and HMTD has been successfully developed.
• The method utilizes readily available reagents and UV irradiation for explosives decomposition.
• This technique offers a practical solution for rapid on-site detection of these dangerous explosives.