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Analysis of explosives using electrospray ionization/ion mobility spectrometry (ESI/IMS)
G R Asbury1, J Klasmeier, H H Hill
1Department of Chemistry, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-4630, USA.
Talanta
|October 31, 2008
Summary
This study demonstrates explosives analysis directly from aqueous solutions using electrospray ionization and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). The method enables selective detection of various explosives with high separation potential.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Forensic Science
Background:
- Traditional explosives analysis often requires sample preparation or vapor phase introduction.
- Direct analysis from aqueous solutions presents challenges due to solvent interference and analyte stability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a method for direct explosives detection from aqueous solutions using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS).
- To investigate the IMS response characteristics of various explosive compounds.
- To assess the potential for selective detection and separation of explosives in mixtures.
Main Methods:
- Electrospray ionization coupled with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) operated in negative mode.
- Quadrupole mass spectrometry used for peak identification.
- Investigation of reduced mobility constants (K(0)) and detection limits for multiple explosives.
Main Results:
- Successful direct analysis of explosives from aqueous solutions was achieved for the first time.
- Selective detection of most explosives was possible, with breakdown products observed.
- Enhanced signal intensity for RDX and HMX was achieved by adding NaCl.
- Reduced mobility constants correlated well with literature data.
- Detection limits ranged from 15-190 µg/L with good linearity.
- Baseline separation of TNT, RDX, and HMX was demonstrated in 6.4 seconds.
Conclusions:
- Electrospray ionization-IMS provides a viable method for direct explosives analysis from aqueous solutions.
- The technique offers selective detection and rapid separation capabilities for explosive mixtures.
- This method has significant implications for rapid screening and forensic applications.
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