Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Quantitative Detection of Trace Explosive Vapors by Programmed Temperature Desorption Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector
Published on: July 25, 2014
A quantitative assessment of chemical techniques for detecting traces of explosives at counter-terrorist portals
Mani Nambayah1, Terence I Quickenden
1Chemistry, School of Biomedical and Chemical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, M313, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.
Abstract:
Previous reviews have discussed in a qualitative manner the various highly sensitive analytical techniques for detecting minute traces of explosive material. However, there is no review available which compares quantitatively the sensitivities of the different analytical methods for detecting explosives. In view of the importance of this area to the present day planning of counter-terrorist strategies, this review makes a comprehensive and quantitative comparison of the analytical chemical methods which can be used for the detection of trace explosives in the luggage and on the persons of travelers. Possible directions of future development in this area are also discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Gas Chromatography: Types of Detectors-II
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: Types of Detectors
Qualitative Analysis
There are two main approaches to qualitative analysis:...
Gas Chromatography: Types of Detectors-I
TCD is the earliest and most widely used detector that operates by measuring the changes in the thermal conductivity of the carrier gas. When a sample compound enters the detector,...
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Lab
Solutions containing organic solvents, such as low-molecular-mass alcohols, esters, or ketones, enhance absorbances by increasing nebulizer...
Atomic Emission Spectroscopy: Lab

