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Updated: Jun 21, 2026

Quantitative Detection of Trace Explosive Vapors by Programmed Temperature Desorption Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector
Published on: July 25, 2014
Current trends in the detection of peroxide-based explosives
Raychelle M Burks1, David S Hage
1Department of Chemistry, University of Nebraska, 704 Hamilton Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588-0304, USA.
This review updates peroxide-based explosives (PBEs) detection methods, focusing on luminescence, spectroscopy, and chromatography. Recent trends include portable field instruments for enhanced security and detecting triacetone triperoxide and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Rising use of peroxide-based explosives (PBEs) necessitates advanced detection techniques.
- This review updates a 2006 assessment of PBE detection strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in PBE detection methods.
- To highlight emerging trends and specific PBE analytes.
Main Methods:
- Focus on luminescence, fluorescence, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry (MS), and electrochemical techniques.
- Includes updates on gas chromatography (GC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Main Results:
- Increased use of IR spectroscopy and MS for PBE analysis.
- Growing emphasis on portable instruments for field measurements.
- Development of methods targeting triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD).
Conclusions:
- Continued innovation in PBE detection is crucial for security.
- Portable and field-deployable methods are a key trend.
- Specific PBEs like TATP and HMTD remain focal points for research.
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