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Mathias S, Amerio-Cox M, Jackson T, Douce D, Sage A, Luke P, Sleeman R, Crean C, Sears P. Selectivity of Explosives Analysis with Ambient Ionization Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry: Implications for Trace Detection. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2024; 35:50-61. [PMID: 38086767 PMCID: PMC10767746 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.3c00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Ambient ionization (AI) is a rapidly growing field in mass spectrometry (MS). It allows for the direct analysis of samples without any sample preparation, making it a promising technique for the detection of explosives. Previous studies have shown that AI can be used to detect a variety of explosives, but the exact gas-phase reactions that occur during ionization are not fully understood. This is further complicated by differences in mass spectrometers and individual experimental set ups between researchers. This study investigated the gas-phase ion reactions of five different explosives using a variety of AI techniques coupled to a Waters QDa mass spectrometer to identify selective ions for explosive detection and identification based on the applied ambient ionization technique. The results showed that the choice of the ion source can have a significant impact on the number of ions observed. This can affect the sensitivity and selectivity of the data produced. The findings of this study provide new insights into the gas-phase ion reactions of explosives and could lead to the development of more sensitive and selective AI-based methods for their detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Mathias
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University
of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
| | - Marius Amerio-Cox
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University
of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
| | - Toni Jackson
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University
of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
| | - David Douce
- Waters
Corporation, Stamford
Avenue, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, U.K.
| | - Ashley Sage
- Waters
Corporation, Stamford
Avenue, Wilmslow SK9 4AX, U.K.
| | - Peter Luke
- Mass
Spec Analytical, Future Space UWE North Gate, Bristol BS34 8RB, U.K.
| | - Richard Sleeman
- Mass
Spec Analytical, Future Space UWE North Gate, Bristol BS34 8RB, U.K.
| | - Carol Crean
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University
of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
| | - Patrick Sears
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University
of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
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2
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Shi L, Habib A, Bi L, Hong H, Begum R, Wen L. Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry: Application and Prospective. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2022; 54:1584-1633. [PMID: 36206159 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2022.2124840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS) is a formidable analytical tool for the analysis of non-polar to polar compounds individually and/or from mixtures, providing information on the molecular weights and chemical structures of the analytes. During the last more than one-decade, ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS) has developed quickly, producing a wide range of platforms and proving scientific improvements in a variety of domains, from biological imaging to quick quality control. These methods have made it possible to detect target analytes in real time without sample preparation in an open environment, and they can be connected to any MS system with an atmospheric pressure interface. They also have the ability to analyze explosives, illicit drugs, disease diagnostics, drugs in biological samples, adulterants in food and agricultural products, reaction progress, and environmental monitoring. The development of novel ambient ionization techniques, such as probe electrospray ionization, paper spray ionization, and fiber spray ionization, employed even at picolitre to femtolitre solution levels to provide femtogram to attogram levels of the target analytes. The special characteristic of this ambient ion source, which has been extensively used, is the noninvasive property of PESI of examination of biological real samples. The results in the current review supports the idea that AIMS has emerged as a pioneer in MS-based approaches and that methods will continue to be developed along with improvements to existing ones in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ahsan Habib
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lei Bi
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanhuan Hong
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rockshana Begum
- Department of Chemistry, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh
| | - Luhong Wen
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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3
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Bailey MJ, de Puit M, Romolo FS. Surface Analysis Techniques in Forensic Science: Successes, Challenges, and Opportunities for Operational Deployment. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2022; 15:173-196. [PMID: 35167323 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061020-124221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Surface analysis techniques have rapidly evolved in the last decade. Some of these are already routinely used in forensics, such as for the detection of gunshot residue or for glass analysis. Some surface analysis approaches are attractive for their portability to the crime scene. Others can be very helpful in forensic laboratories owing to their high spatial resolution, analyte coverage, speed, and specificity. Despite this, many proposed applications of the techniques have not yet led to operational deployment. Here, we explore the application of these techniques to the most important traces commonly found in forensic casework. We highlight where there is potential to add value and outline the progress that is needed to achieve operational deployment. We consider within the scope of this review surface mass spectrometry, surface spectroscopy, and surface X-ray spectrometry. We show how these tools show great promise for the analysis of fingerprints, hair, drugs, explosives, and microtraces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie J Bailey
- Department of Chemistry, Stag Hill Campus, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom;
| | - Marcel de Puit
- Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
- Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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4
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Pintabona L, Astefanei A, Corthals GL, van Asten AC. Utilizing Surface Acoustic Wave Nebulization (SAWN) for the Rapid and Sensitive Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Organic Explosives. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2019; 30:2655-2669. [PMID: 31659718 PMCID: PMC6914713 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-019-02335-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
When considering incident investigations and security checks focused on energetic materials, there is an ongoing need for rapid, on-scene chemical identification. Currently applied methods are not capable of meeting all requirements, and hence, portable mass spectrometry is an interesting alternative although many instrumental challenges still exist. To be able to analyze explosives with mass spectrometry outside the traditional laboratory, suitable ambient ionization methods need to be developed. Ideally such methods are also easily implemented in the field requiring limited to no power sources, gas supplies, flow controllers, and heating devices. For this reason, the potential of SAWN (surface acoustic wave nebulization) for the ambient ionization and subsequent mass spectrometric (MS) analysis of organic explosives was investigated in this study. Excellent sensitivity was observed for nitrate-based organic explosives when operating the MS in negative mode. No dominant adduct peaks were observed for the peroxides TATP and HMTD with SAWN-MS in positive mode. The MS spectra indicate extensive fragmentation of the peroxide explosives even under the mild ionization conditions provided by SAWN. The potential of SAWN-MS was demonstrated with the correct identification of nitrate-based organic explosives in pre- and post-explosion case samples in only a fraction of the time and effort required for the regular laboratory analysis. Results show that SAWN-MS can convincingly identify intact organic energetic compounds and mixtures but that sensitivity is not always sufficient to detect traces of explosives in post-explosion residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Pintabona
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alina Astefanei
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Garry L Corthals
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Arian C van Asten
- van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- CLHC, Amsterdam Center for Forensic Science and Medicine, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 94157, 1090 GD, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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5
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Du J, Liu J, Ren Y, Wang C, Bai F, Hao H. Rapid detection of TNP based on a commercial fluorescent probe. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2019; 211:287-290. [PMID: 30562701 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A simple, rapid and low cost sensing method for the fluorescent detection of TNP in 100% aqueous media was successfully developed based on a commercial probe. Under the non-covalent interactions between TNP with probe, a ratiometric output signal was achieved, which can be applied in real samples test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi Du
- Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Jiping Liu
- Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yifei Ren
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China; People's Public Security University of China, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Chuo Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China; Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Fengbo Bai
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China; Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Hongxia Hao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Judicial Civilization, China; Key Laboratory of Evidence Science, China University of Political Science and Law, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100088, China; People's Public Security University of China, Beijing 100038, China.
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6
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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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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas P Forbes
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Materials Measurement Science Division, Gaithersburg, MD, USA.
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7
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Lawton ZE, Traub A, Fatigante WL, Mancias J, O'Leary AE, Hall SE, Wieland JR, Oberacher H, Gizzi MC, Mulligan CC. Analytical Validation of a Portable Mass Spectrometer Featuring Interchangeable, Ambient Ionization Sources for High Throughput Forensic Evidence Screening. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR MASS SPECTROMETRY 2017; 28:1048-1059. [PMID: 28000107 DOI: 10.1007/s13361-016-1562-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Forensic evidentiary backlogs are indicative of the growing need for cost-effective, high-throughput instrumental methods. One such emerging technology that shows high promise in meeting this demand while also allowing on-site forensic investigation is portable mass spectrometric (MS) instrumentation, particularly that which enables the coupling to ambient ionization techniques. While the benefits of rapid, on-site screening of contraband can be anticipated, the inherent legal implications of field-collected data necessitates that the analytical performance of technology employed be commensurate with accepted techniques. To this end, comprehensive analytical validation studies are required before broad incorporation by forensic practitioners can be considered, and are the focus of this work. Pertinent performance characteristics such as throughput, selectivity, accuracy/precision, method robustness, and ruggedness have been investigated. Reliability in the form of false positive/negative response rates is also assessed, examining the effect of variables such as user training and experience level. To provide flexibility toward broad chemical evidence analysis, a suite of rapidly-interchangeable ion sources has been developed and characterized through the analysis of common illicit chemicals and emerging threats like substituted phenethylamines. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary E Lawton
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | - Angelica Traub
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | | | - Jose Mancias
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | - Adam E O'Leary
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | - Seth E Hall
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | - Jamie R Wieland
- Department of Management and Quantitative Methods, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
| | - Herbert Oberacher
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Core Facility Metabolomics, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michael C Gizzi
- Department of Criminal Justice Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA
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8
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Rapid identification and desorption mechanisms of nitrogen-based explosives by ambient micro-fabricated glow discharge plasma desorption/ionization (MFGDP) mass spectrometry. Talanta 2017; 167:75-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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9
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Hakonen A, Wang F, Andersson PO, Wingfors H, Rindzevicius T, Schmidt MS, Soma VR, Xu S, Li Y, Boisen A, Wu H. Hand-Held Femtogram Detection of Hazardous Picric Acid with Hydrophobic Ag Nanopillar SERS Substrates and Mechanism of Elasto-Capillarity. ACS Sens 2017; 2:198-202. [PMID: 28723138 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.6b00749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Picric acid (PA) is a severe environmental and security risk due to its unstable, toxic, and explosive properties. It is also challenging to detect in trace amounts and in situ because of its highly acidic and anionic character. Here, we assess sensing of PA under nonlaboratory conditions using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) silver nanopillar substrates and hand-held Raman spectroscopy equipment. The advancing elasto-capillarity effects are explained by molecular dynamics simulations. We obtain a SERS PA detection limit on the order of 20 ppt, corresponding attomole amounts, which together with the simple analysis methodology demonstrates that the presented approach is highly competitive for ultrasensitive analysis in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aron Hakonen
- Department
of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, S-412 96 Göteborg, Sweden
- SP Technical Research
Institute of Sweden, Chemistry, Materials and Surfaces, Box 857, SE-501 15 Borås, Sweden
| | - FengChao Wang
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior & Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Per Ola Andersson
- Swedish Defense Research Agency FOI, CBRN Defence & Security, SE-90182 Umeå, Sweden
- Department
of Engineering Sciences, Uppsala University, P.O. Box 534, SE-751 21 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Håkan Wingfors
- Swedish Defense Research Agency FOI, CBRN Defence & Security, SE-90182 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tomas Rindzevicius
- DTU Nanotech, Technical University of Denmark, Department
of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Ørsteds Plads, Building 345 East, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Michael Stenbæk Schmidt
- DTU Nanotech, Technical University of Denmark, Department
of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Ørsteds Plads, Building 345 East, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Venugopal Rao Soma
- Advanced
Centre of Research in High Energy Materials (ACRHEM), University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046, Telangana India
| | - Shicai Xu
- Shandong
Provincial Key Laboratory of Biophysics, College of Physics and Electronic
Information, Dezhou University, Dezhou 253023, China
| | - YingQi Li
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior & Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Anja Boisen
- DTU Nanotech, Technical University of Denmark, Department
of Micro- and Nanotechnology, Ørsteds Plads, Building 345 East, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - HengAn Wu
- Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior & Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science & Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
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