Rapid Identification of New Psychoactive Substances in Letters by LA-APCI-MS

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Drug Detection

Background:

• New psychoactive substances (NPS), particularly synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRA), are a growing concern in correctional facilities.
• SCRA are often smuggled via infused mail, posing challenges for onsite detection due to lack of visible or olfactory cues.
• Traditional detection methods like immunoassays and sniffer dogs are limited by the rapid emergence of new NPS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the application of laser ablation-mass spectrometry (LA-MS) for rapid and straightforward detection of NPS in prison mail.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of an in-house developed LA-MS system utilizing atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI).

Main Methods:

• Developed and utilized an in-house Laser Ablation-Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (LA-APCI-MS) system.
• Analyzed 31 confiscated prison mail samples for the presence of NPS, specifically SCRAs.
• Assessed the time efficiency and accuracy of the LA-APCI-MS method for sample analysis.

Main Results:

• Successfully identified SCRAs in 27 out of 31 analyzed mail samples (87% accuracy).
• The LA-APCI-MS method enabled precise identification of specific infused compounds.
• Analysis time per sample was reduced to an average of one minute, significantly faster than conventional methods.

Conclusions:

• Laser ablation-chemical ionization-mass spectrometry (LA-APCI-MS) offers a promising solution for rapid and efficient onsite detection of NPS in prison mail.
• This technique simplifies sample preparation and drastically reduces analysis time, addressing limitations of current methods.
• LA-APCI-MS can aid in combating the illicit drug trade within prisons by providing a fast and accurate screening tool.