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07:57
Quantitative Detection of Trace Explosive Vapors by Programmed Temperature Desorption Gas Chromatography-Electron Capture Detector
Published on: July 25, 2014
Fate dynamics of environmentally exposed explosive traces
Roderick R Kunz1, Kerin E Gregory, Matthew J Aernecke
1Lincoln Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Lexington, Massachusetts 02420-9108, United States. kunz@LL.mit.edu
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. A
|March 20, 2012
Summary
Trace explosives like TNT, RDX, and PETN degrade within hours due to sublimation and photodegradation. Their persistence depends on composition, temperature, and particle size, impacting detection system capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Forensic Science
Background:
- Trace amounts of explosives pose detection challenges.
- Understanding explosive degradation is crucial for tactical detection systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the chemical and physical fates of trace explosives (TNT, RDX, PETN).
- To inform the capabilities of tactical trace explosive detection systems.
- To develop a predictive model for explosive fingerprint persistence.
Main Methods:
- Mass loss measurements.
- Chemical composition analysis.
- UV exposure studies (330-400 nm).
- Development of a persistence model.
Main Results:
- Explosive mass decreases and composition changes within hours.
- Loss mechanisms include sublimation and photodegradation.
- Degradation rates vary with explosive type, temperature, and particle size.
- UV exposure depressed TNT sublimation but increased RDX sublimation; PETN remained unchanged.
Conclusions:
- A predictive model for explosive fingerprint fate was developed.
- UV radiation affects TNT and RDX sublimation differently.
- PETN's stability is attributed to low UV absorbance.
- Findings enhance understanding of trace explosive persistence for detection.
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