Development in the Detection and Identification of Explosive Residues

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Recent decades show significant advancements in analytical instrument detectors, improving sensitivity and selectivity for explosives detection.
• Improvements in cleanup and recovery procedures for explosive residues have been substantial.
• Established methods with proven effectiveness in identifying explosive components in real-world residues have been integrated into systematic analysis protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review developments in traditional and novel analytical methods for unreacted explosives and residues.
• To cross-reference explosive compounds with analytical methods applied to them, both as pure chemicals and in mixtures.
• To focus on method combinations for systematic analysis and identification of residues from improvised explosive devices, handswabs, and gunshot residue.

Main Methods:

• Review of traditional and novel analytical techniques for explosives and residues.
• Cross-referencing of explosive compounds with specific analytical methods.
• Focus on combined methods for residue analysis from various sources (IEDs, handswabs, gunshot residue).

Main Results:

• Technology exists for positive identification of most unreacted explosives in residues.
• No single method can detect all components of all explosives.
• Greatest progress has been made with nitrated organic compounds.

Conclusions:

• Well-equipped forensic laboratories with experienced scientists and comprehensive reference collections are crucial for accurate analysis.
• Newer commercial explosives based on inorganic salts and non-nitrated organic compounds present ongoing analytical challenges.
• Continued development of analytical methods is needed to address the evolving landscape of explosive formulations.