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Updated: Aug 21, 2026

Quantitative Detection of Trace Explosive Vapors by Programmed Temperature Desorption Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector
Published on: July 25, 2014
Organic explosives analysis using on column-ion trap EI/NICI GC-MS with an external source
Stéphane Calderara1, Dominique Gardebas, Fabienne Martinez
1Explosives department of the Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie 1, Bd Theophile SUEUR-93111 Rosny Sous Bois (Paris-France).
Abstract:
In this study, a standard method by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for the analysis of classical organic explosives was developed. This method was validated in the EI mode, based on the XPT 90-210 standard method. Detection limits (LOD) and quantitation limits (LOQ) were both determined using electronic impact (EI) and negative ion chemical ionization (NICI) modes. These were compared and results showed that in the NICI mode, detection limits were lower than in the EI mode, thus NICI mode appeared to be the best way to analyze nitrate esters. Results of ion trap MS detection were then compared with those obtained in a previous study with single quadrupolar technology. Major ions that were obtained using ion trap MS detection in these two modes were reported.
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