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Published on: November 3, 2016
Hydrogen and oxygen isotope values in hydrogen peroxide
Janet E Barnette1, Michael J Lott, John D Howa
1IsoForensics Inc., 423 Wakara Way, Suite 205, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA. janet@isoforensics.com
Analyzing hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) solutions revealed distinct isotopic signatures. This research provides a method to differentiate commercial H(2)O(2) from illicitly concentrated samples, aiding investigations.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Forensic Science
- Isotope Geochemistry
Background:
- Hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) is a versatile oxidizer with widespread commercial uses.
- The dual-use nature of H(2)O(2) necessitates methods for distinguishing legitimate from illicitly concentrated solutions.
- Isotopic analysis of H(2)O(2) can provide insights into its origin and concentration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the hydrogen and oxygen isotope ratios (δ(2)H and δ(18)O) in commercial hydrogen peroxide solutions.
- To develop a method for measuring the δ(18)O value of H(2)O(2) independent of dilution water.
- To establish isotopic criteria for differentiating commercial H(2)O(2) dilutions from clandestinely concentrated samples.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 97 hydrogen peroxide solutions across four grades purchased in the US and Mexico.
- Measurement of hydrogen (δ(2)H) and oxygen (δ(18)O) isotope values in H(2)O(2) solutions.
- Development of a method to measure the δ(18)O of H(2)O(2) directly via oxygen gas from catalase-induced disproportionation.
Main Results:
- Observed wide ranges in δ(2)H (230‰) and δ(18)O (24‰) values, reflecting dilution water variability.
- Identified predictable linear relationships between δ(2)H and δ(18)O values in H(2)O(2) solutions, near parallel to the Meteoric Water Line.
- Confirmed that the δ(18)O values of manufactured H(2)O(2) approximate atmospheric oxygen (median disproportionated δ(18)O=23.8‰).
Conclusions:
- The isotopic relationships in H(2)O(2) solutions allow for the distinction between commercial dilutions and clandestine concentration.
- The developed method for direct δ(18)O measurement of H(2)O(2) is independent of dilution water.
- This research has potential applications in forensic investigations involving peroxide-based explosives.
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