2nd dimensional GC-MS analysis of sweat volatile organic compounds prepared by solid phase micro-extraction

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Individual-specific odor profiles from sweat, breath, and skin are crucial for forensic investigations.
• Understanding volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in human emanations is key to developing new forensic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles of human sweat.
• To assess the potential of sweat VOCs as biomarkers in forensic science.

Main Methods:

• Solid phase micro-extraction gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS) was employed to analyze sweat samples.
• A two-dimensional gas chromatography separation (polar and nonpolar columns) coupled with mass spectrometry was utilized.
• Electron impact ionization was used for mass spectrometric analysis.

Main Results:

• 574 compounds were identified in human sweat, including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and esters.
• Specific compounds like 1-tridecanol and 4,4'-(1-methylethylidene) bis-phenol were consistently found across all donors.
• Age-related differences in sweat VOC profiles were observed.

Conclusions:

• Characteristic volatile profiles in human sweat can be reliably determined.
• These sweat emanations provide valuable, individual-specific information for forensic scientists.
• The findings support the use of sweat VOC analysis in criminal tracking and identification.