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Published on: June 20, 2016
Recent advances in ambient mass spectrometry of trace explosives
Thomas P Forbes1, Edward Sisco
1National Institute of Standards and Technology, Materials Measurement Science Division, Gaithersburg, MD, USA. thomas.forbes@nist.gov.
Abstract:
Ambient mass spectrometry has evolved rapidly over the past decade, yielding a plethora of platforms and demonstrating scientific advancements across a range of fields from biological imaging to rapid quality control. These techniques have enabled real-time detection of target analytes in an open environment with no sample preparation and can be coupled to any mass analyzer with an atmospheric pressure interface; capabilities of clear interest to the defense, customs and border control, transportation security, and forensic science communities. This review aims to showcase and critically discuss advances in ambient mass spectrometry for the trace detection of explosives.
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