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Hong H, Habib A, Bi L, Qais DS, Wen L. Hollow Cathode Discharge Ionization Mass Spectrometry: Detection, Quantification and Gas Phase Ion-Molecule Reactions of Explosives and Related Compounds. Crit Rev Anal Chem 2024; 54:148-174. [PMID: 35467991 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2022.2067467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Mass spectrometry (MS) has become an essential analytical method in every sector of science and technology. Because of its unique ability to provide direct molecular structure information on analytes, an extra method is rarely required. This review describes fabrication of a variable-pressure hollow cathode discharge (HCD) ion source for MS in detection, quantification and investigation of gas-phase ion molecule reactions of explosives and related compounds using air as a carrier gas. The HCD ion source has been designed in such a way that by altering the ion source pressures, the system can generate both HCD and conventional GD. This design enables for the selective detection and quantification of explosives at trace to ultra-trace levels. The pressure-dependent HCD ion source has also been used to investigate ion-molecule reactions in the gas phase of explosives and related compounds. The mechanism of ion formation in explosive reactions is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Hong
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ahsan Habib
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lei Bi
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | | | - Luhong Wen
- The Research Institute of Advanced Technologies, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
- China Innovation Instrument Co., Ltd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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2
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Cegłowski M, Otłowski T, Gierczyk B, Smeets S, Lusina A, Hoogenboom R. Explosives removal and quantification using porous adsorbents based on poly(2-oxazoline)s with various degree of functionalization. Chemosphere 2023; 340:139807. [PMID: 37574087 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric porous adsorbents are reported for removal of explosives, namely picric acid, 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX), and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) and their subsequent quantification using direct analysis with ambient plasma mass spectrometry. The adsorbents are obtained by functionalization of short-chain poly(2-oxazoline)s with methyl ester side chains using 4-(aminomethyl)pyridine with a degree of functionalization equal to 0, 5, 10, and 20%. The subsequent step consist of cross-linking using a high internal phase emulsion procedure by further side-chain amidation with diethylenetriamine as crosslinker. Picric acid, RDX, and PETN were chosen as the model compounds as they belong to three different groups of explosives, in particular nitroaromatics, nitroamines, and nitrate esters, respectively. The adsorption isotherms, kinetics, as well as the influence of pH and temperature on the adsorption process was investigated. The porous adsorbents showed the highest maximum adsorption capacity towards picric acid, reaching 334 mg g-1, while PETN (80 mg g-1) and RDX (17.4 mg g-1) were less efficiently adsorbed. Subsequent quantification of the adsorbed explosives is performed by a specially designed ambient mass spectrometry setup equipped with a thermal heater. The obtained limits of detection were found to be 20-times improved compared to direct analysis of analyte solutions. The effectiveness of the proposed analytical setup is confirmed by successful quantification of the explosives in river water samples. The research clearly shows that functional porous adsorbents coupled directly with ambient mass spectrometry can be used for rapid quantification of explosives, which can be, e.g., used for tracking illegal manufacturing sites of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Cegłowski
- Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Faculty of Chemistry, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Otłowski
- Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Faculty of Chemistry, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Błażej Gierczyk
- Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Faculty of Chemistry, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Sander Smeets
- Supramolecular Chemistry Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aleksandra Lusina
- Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan, Faculty of Chemistry, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 8, 61-614, Poznań, Poland
| | - Richard Hoogenboom
- Supramolecular Chemistry Group, Centre of Macromolecular Chemistry (CMaC), Department of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S4, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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3
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Siqueira GP, Araújo DAG, de Faria LV, Ramos DLO, Matias TA, Richter EM, Paixão TRLC, Muñoz RAA. A novel 3D-printed graphite/polylactic acid sensor for the electrochemical determination of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene residues in environmental waters. Chemosphere 2023; 340:139796. [PMID: 37586488 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Here, lab-made graphite and polylactic acid (Gpt-PLA) biocomposite materials were used to additively manufacture electrodes via the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique for subsequent determination of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT, considered a persistent organic pollutant). The surface of the 3D-printed material was characterized by SEM and Raman, which revealed high roughness and the presence of defects in the graphite structure, which enhanced the electrochemical response of TNT. The 3D-printed Gpt-PLA electrode coupled to square wave voltammetry (SWV) showed suitable performance for fastly determining the explosive residues (around 7 s). Two reduction processes at around -0.22 V and -0.36 V were selected for TNT detection, with linear ranges between 1.0 and 10.0 μM. Moreover, detection limits of 0.52 and 0.66 μM were achieved for both reduction steps. The proposed method was applied to determine TNT in different environmental water samples (tap water, river water, and seawater) without a dilution step (direct analysis). Recovery values between 98 and 106% confirmed the accuracy of the analyses. Additionally, adequate selectivity was achieved even in the presence of other explosives commonly used by military agencies, metallic ions commonly found in water, and also some electroactive camouflage species. Such results indicate that the proposed device is promising to quantify TNT residues in environmental samples, a viable on-site analysis strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilvana P Siqueira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Diele A G Araújo
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Fundamental, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil.
| | - Lucas V de Faria
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Universidade Federal Fluminense, Departamento de Química Analítica, Outeiro São João Batista s/n, Centro, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - David L O Ramos
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tiago A Matias
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M Richter
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thiago R L C Paixão
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Fundamental, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo A A Muñoz
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, 38400-902, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Bazyar H. On the Application of Microfluidic-Based Technologies in Forensics: A Review. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 23:5856. [PMID: 37447704 PMCID: PMC10346202 DOI: 10.3390/s23135856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic technology is a powerful tool to enable the rapid, accurate, and on-site analysis of forensically relevant evidence on a crime scene. This review paper provides a summary on the application of this technology in various forensic investigation fields spanning from forensic serology and human identification to discriminating and analyzing diverse classes of drugs and explosives. Each aspect is further explained by providing a short summary on general forensic workflow and investigations for body fluid identification as well as through the analysis of drugs and explosives. Microfluidic technology, including fabrication methodologies, materials, and working modules, are touched upon. Finally, the current shortcomings on the implementation of the microfluidic technology in the forensic field are discussed along with the future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Bazyar
- Engineering Thermodynamics, Process & Energy Department, Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Leeghwaterstraat 39, 2628CB Delft, The Netherlands
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Kaur M, Yusuf M, Tsang YF, Kim KH, Malik AK. Amine/hydrazone functionalized Cd(II)/Zn(II) metal-organic framework for ultrafast sensitive detection of hazardous 2,4,6-trinitrophenol in water. Sci Total Environ 2023; 857:159385. [PMID: 36243074 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Amine/hydrazone functionalized dual ligand Cd(II)/Zn(II) based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) denoted as CdMOF- and ZnMOF-NH2, respectively were synthesized via a simple conventional high-yield reflux method using low-cost and readily available starting materials, i.e., a Schiff base linker, 4-pyridylcarboxaldehydeisonicotinoylhydrazone (L1) and 2-aminoterephthalic acid (H2ata) linker. Crystallographic and thermogravimetric studies confirmed the formation of MOFs with good crystallinity and thermal stability. Photoluminescence studies point out that both MOFs can be used efficiently for fast sensing of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) in water with noticeable turn-off quenching response. Their limits of detection (LODs) for TNP were 7 ppb and 10 ppb, respectively with enhanced selectivity toward TNP (over other nitro explosives) as verified by competitive nitro explosive tests. Density functional theory calculations and spectral overlap were used to assess the sensing mechanism. These MOF-based fluorescent sensing systems for TNP are demonstrated to have easy recoverability and high sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manpreet Kaur
- Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala 147002, Punjab, India
| | - Mohamad Yusuf
- Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala 147002, Punjab, India
| | - Yiu Fai Tsang
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ashok Kumar Malik
- Department of Chemistry, Punjabi University, Patiala 147002, Punjab, India.
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6
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Zheng CW, Zhou C, Luo YH, Long M, Long X, Zhou D, Bi Y, Yang S, Rittmann BE. Coremoval of Energetics and Oxyanions via the In Situ Coupling of Catalytic and Enzymatic Destructions: A Solution to Ammunition Wastewater Treatment. Environ Sci Technol 2023; 57:666-673. [PMID: 36445010 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c05675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ammunition wastewater contains toxic nitrated explosives like RDX and oxyanions like nitrate and perchlorate. Its treatment is challenged by low efficiency due to contaminant recalcitrance and high cost due to multiple processes needed for separately removing different contaminant types. This paper reports a H2-based low-energy strategy featuring the treatment of explosives via catalytic denitration followed by microbial mineralization coupled with oxyanion reduction. After a nitrate- and perchlorate-reducing biofilm incapable of RDX biodegradation was coated with palladium nanoparticles (Pd0NPs), RDX was rapidly denitrated with a specific catalytic activity of 8.7 gcat-1 min-1, while biological reductions of nitrate and perchlorate remained efficient. In the subsequent 30-day continuous test, >99% of RDX, nitrate, and perchlorate were coremoved, and their effluent concentrations were below their respective regulation levels. Detected intermediates and shallow metagenome analysis suggest that the intermediates after Pd-catalytic denitration of RDX ultimately were enzymatically utilized by the nitrate- and perchlorate-reducing bacteria as additional electron donor sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Wei Zheng
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Chen Zhou
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Yi-Hao Luo
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Min Long
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Xiangxing Long
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Dandan Zhou
- Engineering Lab for Water Pollution Control and Resources Recovery of Jilin Province, School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun130024, China
| | - Yuqiang Bi
- Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Shize Yang
- Eyring Materials Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
| | - Bruce E Rittmann
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona85281, United States
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7
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Kayhomayun Z, Ghani K, Zargoosh K. Synthesis of samarium orthoferrite-based perovskite nanoparticles as a turn-on fluorescent probe for trace level detection of picric acid. Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc 2022; 281:121627. [PMID: 35853251 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol, PA) is a common constituent of many powerful explosives, thus, development of the chemical probes for trace level detection of PA is a crucial current challenge in both public security and environmental protection. In this work, the applicability of the new perovskite-type oxide SmFeO3 nanoparticles as an inorganic fluorescence turn-on probe for the selective and sensitive recognition of PA in organic and aqueous media was investigated. The synthesis of nanoparticles SmFeO3 was carried out using the surfactant-assisted templating approach which proceeds through the sol-gel process based on nonionic surfactant Triton X-100. The synthesized SmFeO3 nanoparticles exhibited strong solvent-dependent emission at 330 nm wavelength with absorption maxima at 225 nm. Among the tested explosives, the probe showed the highest sensitivity and selectivity for detecting PA in water and water/acetonitrile mixture. The response time for detecting PA was less than 5 s. The limits of detection for PA in acetonitrile and water/acetonitrile mixture were 2.1 µM and 1.1 µM, respectively. Furthermore, to investigate the nature of the fluorescence turn-on sensing mechanism, the experimental data of the dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique and zeta-potential were used. Both techniques confirmed the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) mechanism for detection of PA with the synthesized turn-on probe. The results of the present work will have a considerable impact on the development and applications of a new class of inorganic fluorescence turn-on probes for the detection of PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Kayhomayun
- Department of Chemistry, Malek-Ashtar University of Technology, Shahin-Shahr, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Kamal Ghani
- Department of Chemistry, Malek-Ashtar University of Technology, Shahin-Shahr, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Kiomars Zargoosh
- Department of Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
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8
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Nsuamani ML, Zolotovskaya S, Abdolvand A, Daeid NN, Adegoke O. Thiolated gamma-cyclodextrin-polymer-functionalized CeFe 3O 4 magnetic nanocomposite as an intrinsic nanocatalyst for the selective and ultrasensitive colorimetric detection of triacetone triperoxide. Chemosphere 2022; 307:136108. [PMID: 35995197 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Explosives are powerful destructive weapons used by criminals and terrorists across the globe and their use within military installation sites poses serious environmental health problems. Existing colorimetric sensors for triacetone triperoxide (TATP) relies on detecting its hydrolysed H2O2 form. However, such detection strategy limits the practicability for on-site TATP sensing. In this work, we have developed a novel peroxidase mimic catalytic colorimetric sensor for direct recognition of TATP. Ceria (Ce)-doped Fe3O4 nanoparticles (CeFe3O4) were synthesized via the hot-injection organic synthetic route in the presence of metal precursors and organic ligands. Thereafter, the organic-capped CeFe3O4 nanoparticles were surface-functionalized with amphiphilic polymers (Amp-poly) to render the nanoparticle stable, compact and biocompatible. Thiolated γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD) was adsorbed on the Amp-poly-CeFe3O4 nanocomposite (NC) surface to form a γ-CD-Amp-poly-CeFe3O4 NC. γ-CD served both as a receptor and as a catalytic enhancer for TATP. Hemin (H), used as a catalytic signal amplifier was adsorbed on the γ-CD-Amp-poly-CeFe3O4 NC surface to form a γ-CD-Amp-poly-CeFe3O4-H NC that served as a functional nanozyme for the enhanced catalytic colorimetric detection of TATP. Under optimum experimental reaction conditions, TATP prepared in BIS-TRIS-Trisma Ac-KAc-NAc buffer, pH 3, was selectively and ultrasensitively detected without the need for acid hydrolysis based on the catalytic oxidation of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine by H2O2 in the presence of the γ-CD-Amp-poly-CeFe3O4-H hybrid nanozyme. The obtained limit of detection of ∼0.05 μg/mL when compared with other published probes demonstrated superior sensitivity. The developed peroxidase mimic γ-CD-Amp-poly-CeFe3O4-H catalytic colorimetric sensor was successfully applied to detect TATP in soil, river water and tap water samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Laura Nsuamani
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Svetlana Zolotovskaya
- Materials Science & Engineering Research Cluster, School of Science & Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Amin Abdolvand
- Materials Science & Engineering Research Cluster, School of Science & Engineering, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Niamh Nic Daeid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Oluwasesan Adegoke
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN, UK.
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9
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Novik GP. Analysis of samples of high explosives extracted from explosive remnants of war. Sci Total Environ 2022; 842:156864. [PMID: 35752239 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Millions of tonnes of dumped ammunition and explosive remnants of war remain in nature both on land and at sea. It is well known that the ordnance could represent a definite explosive risk if disturbed, and that some of the constituents in the ammunition could be harmful to humans and the environment. Nevertheless, a tacit assumption by decision makers is that, if left alone, the ammunition will slowly become harmless over time. Explosive remnants of war, however, represent not only an environmental risk but also a security and safety risk, as members of the public could come into contact with them, and fear is growing that ageing munitions could explode and/or be misused. In recent years, several concerns have been raised regarding the presence of dumped ammunition and explosive remnants of war, the potential dangers they represent, and the fact that the deterioration rate of the explosives could be significantly lower than previously assumed. In the present work, thermal and impact sensitivity studies of high explosives extracted from explosive remnants of war were performed, to determine whether or not the explosives have deteriorated to such a degree that a noteworthy decrease in performance and/or impact sensitivity can be recorded. The thermal behaviour of the explosives was studied using thermogravimetry analysis, and the impact sensitivity was determined using a fallhammer machine and the Bruceton test procedure. The thermal and impact sensitivity results obtained in the analysis indicated no deterioration of high explosives in the examined explosive remnants of war that would denote any significant reduction in performance and/or impact sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir P Novik
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, 2027 Kjeller, Norway; Department of Safety, Economics and Planning, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Stavanger, P.O. Box 8600, 4036 Stavanger, Norway.
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10
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Awasthi G, Kumar P. Relative capability demonstration of luminescent Al-MOFs for ideal detection of nitroaromatic explosives. Anal Methods 2022; 14:3467-3473. [PMID: 36052824 DOI: 10.1039/d2ay01030e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Here, we have synthesised three luminescent Al MOFs i.e., Al-NTP, Al-FDA, and Al-TDA, using common metal ions (AlCl3·6H2O) with different carboxylic acid organic linkers (5-nitroisophthalic acid, 2,5-furan dicarboxylic acid, and 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid) in a semi-aqueous medium. The structural analysis of Al-MOFs has been confirmed through powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and absorption spectroscopy. Afterward, the optical properties of all three Al-MOFs were confirmed using photoluminescence spectroscopy and demonstrated for the detection of nitroaromatic explosives. We have observed host-guest interaction through a quenching mechanism. Among the three synthesised Al-MOFs, Al-NTP MOF exhibit 0.014 ppm lowest limit of detection in chloroform at room temperature. Our comparative study results reveal that the selection of the organic linker and solvent plays a critical role in MOF based sensing applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaurav Awasthi
- Material Application Research Lab (MARL), Department of Nano Sciences and Materials, Central University of Jammu, Jammu-181143, India.
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Material Application Research Lab (MARL), Department of Nano Sciences and Materials, Central University of Jammu, Jammu-181143, India.
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11
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Ilyas Q, Waseem MT, Junaid HM, Ali Khan Z, Munir F, Shaikh AJ, Shahzad SA. Fluorescein based fluorescent and colorimetric sensors for sensitive detection of TNP explosive in aqueous medium: Application of logic gate. Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc 2022; 272:120994. [PMID: 35176646 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.120994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Rapid detection of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) in real samples has recently attained considerable attention from the perspective of national security, human health, and environmental safety. In this context, cost-effective and convenient detection of TNP explosive was accomplished through two new fluorescein based sensors F2 and F3. Sensors displayed effective fluorescence quenching response towards TNP in the aqueous medium. Highly sensitive fluorescence detection of TNP explosive (detection limit, 0.73 (F2) and 1.7 nM (F3)) was governed by ground-state charge transfer complex formation, facilitated by favorable H-bonding between sensor and TNP explosive. Fluorescence quenching mechanism for the detection of TNP explosive was investigated through UV-Visible absorption, dynamic light scattering (DLS), density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the Benesi-Hildebrand, and Job's plots. Advantageously, sensors displayed selective and immediate colorimetric recognition of TNP explosive. Importantly, sensors exhibited quick response time towards TNP even in the presence of potential interferences that make them highly suitable for practical applications. Sensors were successfully applied for fluorescent and colorimetric detection of TNP explosive in industrial water samples and fabrication of logic gates. Further, convenient contact mode and instant surface sensing of TNP explosive were achieved through the fabrication of fluorescent strips and explosive responsive test kits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qanita Ilyas
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Tahir Waseem
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Junaid
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Zulfiqar Ali Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan
| | - Farhan Munir
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Ahson Jabbar Shaikh
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan
| | - Sohail Anjum Shahzad
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22060, Pakistan.
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Aamir Khan M, Sharma A, Yadav S, Celin SM, Sharma S. A sketch of microbiological remediation of explosives-contaminated soil focused on state of art and the impact of technological advancement on hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) degradation. Chemosphere 2022; 294:133641. [PMID: 35077733 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
When high-energy explosives such as hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), Octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) are discharged into the surrounding soil and water during production, testing, open dumping, military, or civil activities, they leave a toxic footprint. The US Environmental Protection Agency has labeled RDX as a potential human carcinogen that must be degraded from contaminated sites quickly. Bioremediation of RDX is an exciting prospect that has received much attention in recent years. However, a lack of understanding of RDX biodegradation and the limitations of current approaches have hampered the widespread use of biodegradation-based strategies for RDX remediation at contamination sites. Consequently, new bioremediation technologies are required to enhance performance. In this review, we explore the requirements for in-silico analysis for producing biological models of microbial remediation of RDX in soil. On the other hand, potential gene editing methods for getting the host with target gene sequences responsible for the breakdown of RDX are also reported. Microbial formulations and biosensors for detection and bioremediation are also briefly described. The biodegradation of RDX offers an alternative remediation method that is both cost-effective and ecologically acceptable. It has the potential to be used in conjunction with other cutting-edge technologies to further increase the efficiency of RDX degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Aamir Khan
- Centre for Rural Development & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - Abhishek Sharma
- Amity Food and Agriculture Foundation, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, 201313, India.
| | - Sonal Yadav
- Centre for Rural Development & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
| | - S Mary Celin
- Centre for Fire, Explosives and Environment Safety, Defence Research & Development Organization, Brig. Mazumdar Road, Delhi, 110 054, India
| | - Satyawati Sharma
- Centre for Rural Development & Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, 110016, India
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13
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Zhang H, Zhu Y, Wang S, Zhao S, Nie Y, Liao X, Cao H, Yin H, Liu X. Contamination characteristics of energetic compounds in soils of two different types of military demolition range in China. Environ Pollut 2022; 295:118654. [PMID: 34890741 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The pollution of energetic compounds (ECs) in military ranges has become the focus of worldwide attention. However, few studies on the contamination of ECs at Chinese military ranges have been reported to date. In this study, two different types of military demolition range in China, Dunhua (DH) and Taiyuan (TY), were investigated and the ECs in their soils were determined. 10 ECs were detected at both ranges. While all the contamination characteristics were distinct, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) was the most abundant contamination source in soils at DH range, with an average concentration of 1106 mg kg-1 and a maximum concentration of 34,083 mg kg-1. Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and two mono-amino degradation products of TNT were also found to have high concentrations, with potential ecological and human health risks. In contrast, the concentrations of ECs in soils of TY range were much lower. The content of RDX was most significant, with average and maximum concentrations of 7.8 and 158 mg kg-1, respectively. However, the potential threat to human health of 2,4-dinitrotoluene and 2,6-dinitrotoluene in soils at both ranges should not be ignored. The differences in pollution characteristics of the ECs at DH and TY are closely related to the types and amounts of the munitions destroyed. Moreover, the spatial distribution of ECs at the demolition ranges was extremely heterogeneous, which may be attributed to the use of open burning / open detonation and the non-homogeneous composition of the munitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijun Zhang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Yongbing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Shiyu Wang
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
| | - Sanping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - Yaguang Nie
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei, 230601, China
| | - Xiaoyong Liao
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hongying Cao
- Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Hao Yin
- Instruments' Center for Physical Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Institute of Polar Environment & Anhui Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China.
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14
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Gillen G, Lawrence J, Sisco E, Staymates ME, Verkouteren J, Robinson EL, Bulk A. Improving particle collection efficiency of sampling wipes used for trace chemical detection. Anal Methods 2022; 14:581-587. [PMID: 34994748 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay01609a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Improvement of the particle collection efficiency of sampling wipes is desirable for optimizing the performance of many wipe-based chemical analysis techniques used for trace chemical screening applications. In this note, commercially available Teflon coated fiberglass and calendered Nomex sampling wipes were modified by mechanically scoring the wipe surface to produce topography that promoted enhanced and localized particle collection. Wipe surface modifications improved particle collection efficiency, relative to unmodified wipes, by factors of 3 to 13 depending on sampling conditions, wipe type, and surface sampled. Improvements were demonstrated for both model polystyrene latex microspheres and inkjet printed explosive particles. The modifications also concentrated particles into pre-defined locations on the wipe which can be engineered to ensure maximum overlap with the thermal desorber of a trace contraband detection system allowing for more effective analysis of collected trace residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Gillen
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Jeffrey Lawrence
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Edward Sisco
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Matthew E Staymates
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Jennifer Verkouteren
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Elizabeth L Robinson
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
| | - Alexander Bulk
- Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA.
- Building Energy Sciences Group, The National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, CO 80401, USA
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15
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Rosen G, Lotufo GR, Belden JB, George RD. Environmental Characterization of Underwater Munitions Constituents at a Former Military Training Range. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022; 41:275-286. [PMID: 33978266 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
As a result of military activities, unexploded ordnance and discarded military munitions are present in underwater environments, which has resulted in the release of munitions constituents including the high explosives 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), along with their primary degradation products, to the water column and adjacent sediments. The present study focused on the characterization of underwater exposure and concentrations of energetics such as TNT and RDX at the former Vieques Naval Training Range at Bahia Salina del Sur (Vieques, Puerto Rico, USA), a bay with documented high incidence of munitions. In situ passive sampling using polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS) was used for the detection and quantification of constituents in water at target locations approximately 15 to 30 cm from 15 individual potentially leaking munitions, and also at 15 unbiased locations approximately evenly spaced across the Bay. For comparison with POCIS-derived concentrations, grab samples were taken at the POCIS target locations. The POCIS-derived and averaged grab samples agreed within a factor of 3. When detected, munitions constituent concentrations (primarily TNT and RDX) were observed at ultratrace concentrations (as low as 4 ng/L for RDX), except 30 cm from one General Purpose bomb where the TNT concentration was 5.3 µg/L, indicating that low-level contamination exists at Bahia Salina del Sur on a very localized scale despite the relatively high density of munitions, similar to previously reported results for other munitions sites around the world. Sediment and porewater sampled at 4 stations where munitions constituents were detected in the water column had concentrations below detection (approximately 5 µg/kg and 5 ng/L, respectively), suggesting that the sediment was not a sink for these constituents at those locations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:275-286. © 2021 SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunther Rosen
- Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Guilherme R Lotufo
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
| | - Jason B Belden
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Robert D George
- Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, California, USA
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16
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Sun Z, Zhang G, Li Y, Qiao T, Liu Z, Wang P, Li G, Zhou Z, Zheng J, Li Y, Zhu J, Liu Y. In situ identification of TATP and DADP particles collected with transparent tape by Raman spectroscopy and imaging. Anal Methods 2021; 13:5173-5178. [PMID: 34668496 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay01287h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and its byproduct diacetone diperoxide (DADP) are commonly used home-made high explosives in bombing cases and terrorist attacks. However, these two peroxide explosives are unstable and prone to thermal decomposition, leading to challenges in sample collection and preparation in bombing cases. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an in situ identification method for TATP and DADP. Compared to the solvent-based swabbing methods commonly used for trace explosive collection, the tape lifting method can collect explosive particles and other potential evidence without damaging fingerprints or DNA. This study aims to develop a tape lifting method to collect trace explosive particles in bombing cases and an in situ method to identify TATP and DADP particles on the sticky side of transparent tape directly using laser confocal Raman spectroscopy. One type of fingerprint tape and two types of office tape were used to collect peroxide explosive particles followed by particle fixation on glass slides. Laser confocal Raman spectroscopy was applied to directly identify target particles, without peeling the attached tape off the glass slide. A solid-state laser emitting at 473 nm was suitable for Raman and imaging analysis of TATP and DADP. To mimic the real situation, the synthetic TATP and DADP were passed through a 100-mesh sieve, respectively. Fifty μg of each explosive powder was weighed, mixed and spread on a wooden table with dust in an area of 10 × 10 cm2. Subsequently, the samples were collected with the fingerprint tape. A targeted area of the tape with suspicious particles was imaged for analysis. Based on the difference between the characteristic Raman bands of TATP and DADP, the band ranges of 530-550 cm-1 and 750-770 cm-1 were selected, respectively, for obtaining the distribution information. The combination of Raman technology and the tape lifting method shows great potential for in situ identification of forensic samples by providing chemical and spatial information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenwen Sun
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Guannan Zhang
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Yonggang Li
- School of Investigation, People's Public Security University of China, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Ting Qiao
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
- China University of Politics and Law, Xitucheng Road 25, Haidian District, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Zhanfang Liu
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Guangyao Li
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Jili Zheng
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Yajun Li
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Jun Zhu
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
| | - Yao Liu
- Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Public Security, Muxidi South 17th, Xicheng District, Beijing 100038, China.
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17
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Yang X, Lai JL, Zhang Y, Luo XG, Han MW, Zhao SP. Microbial community structure and metabolome profiling characteristics of soil contaminated by TNT, RDX, and HMX. Environ Pollut 2021; 285:117478. [PMID: 34087636 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This experiment was conducted to evaluate the ecotoxicity of typical explosives and their mechanisms in the soil microenvironment. Here, TNT (trinitrotoluene), RDX (cyclotrimethylene trinitramine), and HMX (cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine) were used to simulate the soil pollution of single explosives and their combination. The changes in soil enzyme activity and microbial community structure and function were analyzed in soil, and the effects of explosives exposure on the soil metabolic spectrum were revealed by non-targeted metabonomics. TNT, RDX, and HMX exposure significantly inhibited soil microbial respiration and urease and dehydrogenase activities. Explosives treatment reduced the diversity and richness of the soil microbial community structure, and the microorganisms able to degrade explosives began to occupy the soil niche, with the Sphingomonadaceae, Actinobacteria, and Gammaproteobacteria showing significantly increased relative abundances. Non-targeted metabonomics analysis showed that the main soil differential metabolites under explosives stress were lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic acids and derivatives, with the phosphotransferase system (PTS) pathway the most enriched pathway. The metabolic pathways for carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids in soil were specifically inhibited. Therefore, residues of TNT, RDX, and HMX in the soil could inhibit soil metabolic processes and change the structure of the soil microbial community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Yang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Jin-Long Lai
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China.
| | - Xue-Gang Luo
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Meng-Wei Han
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
| | - San-Ping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of NBC Protection for Civilian, Beijing, 102205, China
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18
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Agranat AJ, Kabessa Y, Shemer B, Shpigel E, Schwartsglass O, Atamneh L, Uziel Y, Ejzenberg M, Mizrachi Y, Garcia Y, Perepelitsa G, Belkin S. An autonomous bioluminescent bacterial biosensor module for outdoor sensor networks, and its application for the detection of buried explosives. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 185:113253. [PMID: 33930754 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We describe a miniaturized field-deployable biosensor module, designed to function as an element in a sensor network for standoff monitoring and mapping of environmental hazards. The module harbors live bacterial sensor cells, genetically engineered to emit a bioluminescent signal in the presence of preselected target materials, which act as its core sensing elements. The module, which detects and processes the biological signal, composes a digital record that describes its findings, and can be transmitted to a remote receiver. The module is an autonomous self-contained unit that can function either as a standalone sensor, or as a node in a sensor network. The biosensor module can potentially be used for detecting any target material to which the sensor cells were engineered to respond. The module described herein was constructed to detect the presence of buried landmines underneath its footprint. The demonstrated detection sensitivity was 0.25 mg 2,4-dinitrotoluene per Kg soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aharon J Agranat
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yossef Kabessa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel.
| | - Benjamin Shemer
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Etai Shpigel
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Offer Schwartsglass
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Loay Atamneh
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yonatan Uziel
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Meir Ejzenberg
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yosef Mizrachi
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Yehudit Garcia
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Galina Perepelitsa
- Department of Applied Physics and the Brojde Center for Innovative Engineering and Computer Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Shimshon Belkin
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
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19
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Duraimurugan K, Harikrishnan M, Madhavan J, Siva A, Lee SJ, Theerthagiri J, Choi MY. Anthracene-based fluorescent probe: Synthesis, characterization, aggregation-induced emission, mechanochromism, and sensing of nitroaromatics in aqueous media. Environ Res 2021; 194:110741. [PMID: 33450234 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.110741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The sensitive and selective detection of nitroexplosive molecules thorough a simple methodology has received a significant field of research affecting global security and public safety. In the present study, the synthesis of anthracene-based chalcone (S1) was conducted using a simple condensation method. S1 was found to exhibit unique properties, such as aggregation-induced emission in solution and mechanochromic behavior in solid state. A fluorescent aggregate was applied to sense electron-deficient picric acid (PA) and 2,4-dinitrophenol (2,4-DNP) in an aqueous solution. Notably, the developed test strip-based sensor (S1) could be used to effectively detect PA and 2,4-DNP, which were visualized by the naked eye. Photophysical analysis revealed the occurrence of an electron transfer from electron-rich S1 to the electron-deficient nitro compounds, which was confirmed using density functional theory and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance studies. In addition, the observed results confirmed the simple synthesis of S1 as a promising material for the development of test strip-based sensor devices for the detection of toxic and explosive aromatic nitro molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumaraguru Duraimurugan
- Solar Energy Lab, Department of Chemistry, Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore, 632 115, India
| | - Muniyasamy Harikrishnan
- Supramolecular and Organometallic Chemistry Lab, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625 021, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Jagannathan Madhavan
- Solar Energy Lab, Department of Chemistry, Thiruvalluvar University, Vellore, 632 115, India.
| | - Ayyanar Siva
- Supramolecular and Organometallic Chemistry Lab, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, 625 021, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Seung Jun Lee
- Core-Facility Center for Photochemistry & Nanomaterials, Department of Chemistry, Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52828, South Korea
| | - Jayaraman Theerthagiri
- Core-Facility Center for Photochemistry & Nanomaterials, Department of Chemistry, Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52828, South Korea
| | - Myong Yong Choi
- Core-Facility Center for Photochemistry & Nanomaterials, Department of Chemistry, Research Institute of Natural Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52828, South Korea.
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20
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Kalsi A, Celin SM, Bhanot P, Sahai S, Sharma JG. A novel egg shell-based bio formulation for remediation of RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine) contaminated soil. J Hazard Mater 2021; 401:123346. [PMID: 32659577 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contamination by secondary explosive has been posing threat to human health and the ecosystem. We investigated the potential of a novel bioformulation developed from poultry waste for the bioremediation of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) contaminated soils. Eggshells and additives immobilized with an indigenous explosive degrading microbe Janibacter cremeus were utilized for the development of the wettable powder bioformulation. Treatments carried out under unsaturated and saturated soil conditions resulted in 62 and 73 % removal of RDX respectively in 35 days meeting the soil clean up goals. The saturated treatment sets exhibited better microbial growth during the study in terms of live cell count and total enzyme activity. The bacteria, J. cremeus was observed to exhibit significant release of nitrite under both unsaturated as well as saturated conditions. Mass spectrometric studies showed that, both the conditions lead to the formation of nitroso-derivatives of RDX. But under saturated condition, an intermediate, 5-hydroxy-4-nitro-2,4-diazapentanal was observed which is a precursor to 4-nitro-2,4-diazabuatnal ultimately leading to mineralization. An accessible bio resource from poultry waste when used as a carrier for explosive degrading microbe has proven effective for in situ remediation of explosive contaminated soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchita Kalsi
- Centre for Fire Explosives and Environment Safety (CFEES), DRDO, Delhi, India; Delhi Technological University, Delhi, India
| | - S Mary Celin
- Centre for Fire Explosives and Environment Safety (CFEES), DRDO, Delhi, India.
| | - Pallvi Bhanot
- Centre for Fire Explosives and Environment Safety (CFEES), DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Sandeep Sahai
- Centre for Fire Explosives and Environment Safety (CFEES), DRDO, Delhi, India
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21
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Pan X. Determination of the N-Nitroso Compounds in Mouse Following RDX Exposure. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2326:315-325. [PMID: 34097279 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1514-0_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine, commonly called RDX, is an important explosive, which is widely used in military and civic activities. As it is used, RDX is widely found in many locations and caused soil and water contamination. Many studies show that RDX is toxic to many organisms, including plants, animals, and microbes. RDX causes genetic toxicity and neurotoxicity as well as potential carcinogenesis. Even it is worse that RDX can be biotransformed into other N-nitroso derivatives, such as MNX, DNX, and TNX; these derivatives can be found in both naturally in RDX-contaminated soil and also in the animal GI tracks. To study the potential effect of RDX and its N-nitroso derivatives, this chapter presents a step-by-step method for detect RDX and its N-nitroso derivatives in animal stomach and GI tracts followed RDX exposure by gas chromatography with electron capture detector (GC/ECD). This method can also be used to detect RDX and its N-nitroso derivatives in other tissues and in other animals and plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Pan
- Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
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22
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Evans-Nguyen KM, Rivera A, Fontanez-Adames J, Li F, Musselman B. Solvent-free, Noncontact Electrostatic Sampling for Rapid Analysis with Mass Spectrometry: Application to Drugs and Explosives. J Am Soc Mass Spectrom 2020; 31:2237-2242. [PMID: 33107742 DOI: 10.1021/jasms.0c00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A hand-held Van de Graaf generator is used to apply a high voltage, negligible current electrostatic potential to a wire mesh positioned in close proximity to a particle-laden surface in order to collect those particles for analysis. The electrostatic field effects transfer particles to the mesh without a requirement for mechanical contact between mesh and surface. Analysis of chemicals present in the sampled particles is completed by thermal desorption electrospray ionization. The utility of the method for noncontact sampling is demonstrated using solid drug powder samples, and inorganic explosives dispersed either on solid surfaces or in sand/soil in order to simulate common interfering matrices that might be encountered in the forensic environment. A metal mesh sampling substrate is utilized instead of traditional polymer-based swabs in order to permit thermal desorption at higher temperatures. The method leaves no visible trace of sampling leaving details such as a fingerprint image unperturbed, as demonstrated using fluorescence photography. Direct sampling of trace particles from hard surfaces and skin documents flexibility in the choice of sampling substrates, desorption temperatures, and sampling times. The potential of the device for use in forensic analyses is detailed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenyon M Evans-Nguyen
- The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, The University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida 33606, United States
| | - Amanda Rivera
- The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, The University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida 33606, United States
| | - Jannelys Fontanez-Adames
- The Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, The University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida 33606, United States
| | - Frederick Li
- Ionsense, Inc., Saugus, Massachussetts 01906, United States
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23
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Irlam RC, Hughes C, Parkin MC, Beardah MS, O'Donnell M, Brabazon D, Barron LP. Trace multi-class organic explosives analysis in complex matrices enabled using LEGO®-inspired clickable 3D-printed solid phase extraction block arrays. J Chromatogr A 2020; 1629:461506. [PMID: 32866822 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The development of a new, lower cost method for trace explosives recovery from complex samples is presented using miniaturised, click-together and leak-free 3D-printed solid phase extraction (SPE) blocks. For the first time, a large selection of ten commercially available 3D printing materials were comprehensively evaluated for practical, flexible and multiplexed SPE using stereolithography (SLA), PolyJet and fused deposition modelling (FDM) technologies. Miniaturised single-piece, connectable and leak-free block housings inspired by Lego® were 3D-printed in a methacrylate-based resin, which was found to be most stable under different aqueous/organic solvent and pH conditions, using a cost-effective benchtop SLA printer. Using a tapered SPE bed format, frit-free packing of multiple different commercially available sorbent particles was also possible. Coupled SPE blocks were then shown to offer efficient analyte enrichment and a potentially new approach to improve the stability of recovered analytes in the field when stored on the sorbent, rather than in wet swabs. Performance was measured using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry and was better, or similar, to commercially available coupled SPE cartridges, with respect to recovery, precision, matrix effects, linearity and range, for a selection of 13 peroxides, nitramines, nitrate esters and nitroaromatics. Mean % recoveries from dried blood, oil residue and soil matrices were 79 ± 24%, 71 ± 16% and 76 ± 24%, respectively. Excellent detection limits between 60 fg for 3,5-dinitroaniline to 154 pg for nitroglycerin were also achieved across all matrices. To our knowledge, this represents the first application of 3D printing to SPE of so many organic compounds in complex samples. Its introduction into this forensic method offered a low-cost, 'on-demand' solution for selective extraction of explosives, enhanced flexibility for multiplexing/design alteration and potential application at-scene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Irlam
- Department Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford St., London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Cian Hughes
- Advanced Processing Technology Research Centre, Dublin City University, Dublin9, Ireland
| | - Mark C Parkin
- Eurofins Forensic Services, Teddington, Middlesex, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew S Beardah
- Forensic Explosives Laboratory, Dstl, Fort Halstead, Sevenoaks, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Michael O'Donnell
- Forensic Explosives Laboratory, Dstl, Fort Halstead, Sevenoaks, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Dermot Brabazon
- Advanced Processing Technology Research Centre, Dublin City University, Dublin9, Ireland
| | - Leon P Barron
- Department Analytical, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford St., London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom; Environmental Research Group, Imperial College London, 80 Wood Lane, LondonW12 0BZ, United Kingdom.
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24
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Anders DH, Miller SA, Graziano CR, Castellano J, Conte J. Technical note: presence of gunshot residue in and around a police station. Int J Legal Med 2020; 134:2195-2198. [PMID: 32638083 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02357-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies on the transference of gunshot residue (GSR) have shown that GSR can be transferred to surfaces through everyday activities and can persist on surfaces. Being that all police departments operate differently and have different spaces, GSR can be transferred and accumulates in different areas. Samples were collected from persons and surfaces in and around the Scranton Police Department and tested by scanning electron microscopy to identify GSR. Surfaces included police car seats, gun holsters, clothing around holsters, and belts around holsters. The results of the study showed that of the 25 samples collected, 40% contained at least one particle that was "characteristic of primer GSR", 64% contained at least one particle that was "consistent with primer GSR", and 92% contained at least one particle considered "commonly associated with primer GSR". This research characterizes where GSR is transferred within and around the police department. This data can be used to implement cleaning procedures or methods for decontamination. This study continues to strengthen the body of knowledge surrounding transferring of GSR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Destiny H Anders
- Department of Biological & Physical Sciences, Keystone College, La Plume, PA, USA
| | - Sabrina A Miller
- Department of Biological & Physical Sciences, Keystone College, La Plume, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Jillian Conte
- Department of Biological & Physical Sciences, Keystone College, La Plume, PA, USA.
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25
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Fuller ME, Koster van Groos PG, Jarrett M, Kucharzyk KH, Minard-Smith A, Heraty LJ, Sturchio NC. Application of a multiple lines of evidence approach to document natural attenuation of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in groundwater. Chemosphere 2020; 250:126210. [PMID: 32109698 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This study utilized innovative analyses to develop multiple lines of evidence for natural attenuation of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in groundwater at the U.S. Department of Energy's Pantex Plant. RDX, as well as the degradation product 4-nitro-2,4-diazabutanal (NDAB; produced by aerobic biodegradation or alkaline hydrolysis) were detected in a large portion of the plume, with lower concentrations of the nitroso-containing metabolites produced during anaerobic biodegradation. 16S metagenomic sequencing detected the presence of bacteria known to aerobically degrade RDX (e.g., Gordonia, Rhodococcus) and NDAB (Methylobacterium), as well as the known anoxic RDX degrader Pseudomonas fluorescens I-C. Proteomic analysis detected both the aerobic RDX degradative enzyme XplA, and the anoxic RDX degradative enzyme XenB. Groundwater enrichment cultures supplied with low concentrations of labile carbon confirmed the potential of the extant groundwater community to aerobically degrade RDX and produce NDAB. Compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) of RDX collected at the site showed fractionation of nitrogen isotopes with δ15N values ranging from approximately -5‰ to +9‰, providing additional evidence of RDX degradation. Taken together, these results provide evidence of in situ RDX degradation in the Pantex Plant groundwater. Furthermore, they demonstrate the benefit of multiple lines of evidence in supporting natural attenuation assessments, especially with the application of innovative isotopic and -omic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Fuller
- Aptim Federal Services, Lawrenceville, NJ, 08648, USA.
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26
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Huegli D, Merks S, Schwaninger A. Automation reliability, human-machine system performance, and operator compliance: A study with airport security screeners supported by automated explosives detection systems for cabin baggage screening. Appl Ergon 2020; 86:103094. [PMID: 32342885 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Using a simulated X-ray screening task, we tested 122 airport security screeners working with the support of explosives detection systems for cabin baggage screening (EDSCB) as low-level automation. EDSCB varied systematically on three automation reliability measures: accuracy, d', and positive predictive value (PPV). Results showed that when unaided performance was high, operator confidence was high, and automation provided only small benefits. When unaided performance was lower, operator confidence was lower, and automation with higher d' provided large benefits. Operator compliance depended on the PPV of automation: We found lower compliance for lower PPV. Automation with a high false alarm rate of 20% and a low PPV of .3 resulted in operators ignoring about one-half of the true automation alarms on difficult targets-a strong cry-wolf effect. Our results suggest that automation reliability described by d' and PPV is more valid than using accuracy alone. When the PPV is below .5, operators should receive clear instructions on how to respond to automation alarms.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Huegli
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Applied Psychology, Institute Humans in Complex Systems, Riggenbachstrasse 16, CH-4600, Olten, Switzerland.
| | - Sarah Merks
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Applied Psychology, Institute Humans in Complex Systems, Riggenbachstrasse 16, CH-4600, Olten, Switzerland.
| | - Adrian Schwaninger
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Applied Psychology, Institute Humans in Complex Systems, Riggenbachstrasse 16, CH-4600, Olten, Switzerland.
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27
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Wang G, Li Y, Cai Z, Dou X. A Colorimetric Artificial Olfactory System for Airborne Improvised Explosive Identification. Adv Mater 2020; 32:e1907043. [PMID: 31995260 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201907043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The detection of ultralow or nonvolatile target analytes remains a significant challenge for artificial olfactory systems even after decades of development, which severely limits their widespread application. To overcome this challenge, an artificial olfactory system based on a colorimetric hydrogel array is constructed for the first time as a universal representative. As an effective extension of conventional artificial olfactory systems that integrates the merits of its predecessors, the proposed system accurately mimics olfactory mucosa and specific odorant binding proteins using hydrogels endowed with specific colorimetric reagents for the detection of hypochlorite, chlorate, perchlorate, urea, and nitrate. Therefore, the proposed system is capable of detecting and discriminating between these five airborne improvised explosive microparticulates with a detection limit as low as 39.4 pg. Additionally, the system demonstrates good reusability over ten cycles, rapid response time of ≈0.2 s, and excellent discrimination properties, despite significant variation. This proof-of-concept study on colorimetric artificial olfactory systems yields a novel strategy for the direct and discriminative detection of nonvolatile airborne microparticulates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangfa Wang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Explosives Safety Science, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices for Special Environments, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yushu Li
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Explosives Safety Science, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices for Special Environments, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Zhenzhen Cai
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Explosives Safety Science, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices for Special Environments, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Xincun Dou
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Explosives Safety Science, Xinjiang Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Functional Materials and Devices for Special Environments, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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28
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Milligan K, Shand NC, Graham D, Faulds K. Detection of Multiple Nitroaromatic Explosives via Formation of a Janowsky Complex and SERS. Anal Chem 2020; 92:3253-3261. [PMID: 31927940 PMCID: PMC7145293 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b05062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Military-grade explosives such as 2,4,6-trinitroluene (TNT) are still a major worldwide concern in terms of terror threat and environmental impact. The most common methods currently employed for the detection of explosives involve colorimetric tests, which are known to be rapid and portable; however, they often display false positives and lack sensitivity. Other methods used include ion mobility mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), which despite producing more reliable results often require large, expensive instrumentation and specially trained staff. Here we demonstrate an alternative approach that utilizes the formation of a colored Janowsky complex with nitroaromatic explosives through reaction of the enolate ion of 3-mercapto-2-butanone. The colored complex is formed rapidly and can then be detected sensitively using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). We demonstrate that SERS can be used as a quick, sensitive, and selective technique for the detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexanitrostillbene (HNS), and 2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl) with a detection limit of 6.81 ng mL-1 achieved for TNT, 17.2 ng mL-1 for tetryl, and 135.1 ng mL-1 for HNS. This method of detection also requires minimal sample preparation, can be done in a solution-based format, and utilizes the same precursor reagents for complex formation with each of the explosives which can then be identified due to the specificity of the unique SERS response obtained. We demonstrate the ability to simultaneously identify three explosive compounds within a total analysis time of 10 min. This method of detection shows promise for the development of rapid and portable SERS-based assays which can be utilized in the field in order to achieve reliable and quantitative detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Milligan
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, 99 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RD, United Kingdom
| | - Neil C. Shand
- Defence
Science Technology Laboratory (DSTL), Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Duncan Graham
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, 99 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RD, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Faulds
- Department
of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Technology and Innovation Centre, University of Strathclyde, 99 George Street, Glasgow G1 1RD, United Kingdom
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29
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Lotufo GR, George RD, Belden JB, Woodley C, Smith DL, Rosen G. Release of Munitions Constituents in Aquatic Environments Under Realistic Scenarios and Validation of Polar Organic Chemical Integrative Samplers for Monitoring. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019; 38:2383-2391. [PMID: 31365142 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Munitions constituents (MC) may be released into aquatic environments as a result of underwater military munitions (UWMM) corrosion and breach. The present study investigated the release of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) from Composition B fragments under 2 realistic exposure scenarios in a large flume with flow set at 15 cm/s: the first represented the release of MC from fully exposed Composition B, and the second represented release through a small hole, simulating a breached munition. Release of MC through a small hole was approximately 10 times lower than from exposed Composition B, demonstrating the strong influence of exposure to flow on release. The rate of release of MC into the flume was similar to that previously reported in a related field experiment, but a similar mass loss resulted in MC concentration in the field >300 times lower, likely by the dilution effect of hydrodynamic transport. The present study corroborates previous findings of release of MC at UWMM sites resulting in concentrations below the toxicity threshold to most species. In the flume water, MC was quantified using frequent grab sampling and polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS). For TNT, POCIS-estimated time-weighted average concentrations were up to 40% higher than those derived from grab samples, whereas for RDX differences were 6% or less, demonstrating that POCIS provide reliable temporal integration of changing environmental concentrations for common MC. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:2383-2391. Published 2019 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme R Lotufo
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi
| | - Robert D George
- US Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, California
| | - Jason B Belden
- Department of Zoology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Christa Woodley
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi
| | - David L Smith
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi
| | - Gunther Rosen
- US Navy Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, California
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30
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Wang J, Yang Y, Sun G, Zheng M, Xie Z. A convenient and universal platform for sensing environmental nitro-aromatic explosives based on amphiphilic carbon dots. Environ Res 2019; 177:108621. [PMID: 31421450 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) is environmentally deleterious substance that has been of pressing societal concern. Therefore, developing a convenient and reliable platforms for its fast and efficient detection is of paramount importance from security point of view. Herein, amphiphilic fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) were prepared by a simple solvothermal method. CDs exhibit high selectivity and sensitivity on TNP in the polar and apolar solvent and even natural water samples. Moreover, the simple and portable indicator paper can be prepared conveniently and used for sensing TNP visually with high sensitivity and fast response. Research findings obtained from this study would assist in the development of portable devices for the on-site and real-time detection of environmental hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Life Science, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Changchun University of Technology, 2055 Yanan Street, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, PR China
| | - Yushan Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Life Science, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Changchun University of Technology, 2055 Yanan Street, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, PR China
| | - Guoying Sun
- School of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Life Science, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Changchun University of Technology, 2055 Yanan Street, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, PR China
| | - Min Zheng
- School of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemistry and Life Science, Advanced Institute of Materials Science, Changchun University of Technology, 2055 Yanan Street, Changchun, Jilin, 130012, PR China.
| | - Zhigang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, 130022, PR China.
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31
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Estoppey N, Mathieu J, Gascon Diez E, Sapin E, Delémont O, Esseiva P, de Alencastro LF, Coudret S, Folly P. Monitoring of explosive residues in lake-bottom water using Polar Organic Chemical Integrative Sampler (POCIS) and chemcatcher: determination of transfer kinetics through Polyethersulfone (PES) membrane is crucial. Environ Pollut 2019; 252:767-776. [PMID: 31200202 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.04.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Between 1920 and 1967, approximatively 8200 tons of ammunition waste were dumped into some Swiss lakes. This study is part of the extensive historical and technical investigations performed since 1995 by Swiss authorities to provide a risk assessment. It aims to assess whether explosive monitoring by passive sampling is feasible in lake-bottom waters. Polar organic chemical integrative sampler (POCIS) and Chemcatcher were first calibrated in a channel system supplied with continuously refreshed lake water spiked with two nitroamines (HMX and RDX), one nitrate ester (PETN), and six nitroaromatics (including TNT). Exposure parameters were kept as close as possible to the ones expected at the bottom of two affected lakes. Sixteen POCIS and Chemcatcher were simultaneously deployed in the channel system and removed in duplicates at 8 different intervals over 21 days. Sorbents and polyethersulfone (PES) membranes were separately extracted and analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS. When possible, a three-compartment model was used to describe the uptake of compounds from water, over the PES membrane into the sorbent. Uptake of target compounds by sorbents was shown not to approach equilibrium during 21 days. However, nitroaromatics strongly accumulated in PES, thus delaying the transfer of these compounds to sorbents (lag-phase up to 9 days). Whereas sampling rate (RS) of nitroamines were in the range of 0.06-0.14 L day-1, RS of nitroaromatics were up to 10 times lower. As nitroaromatic accumulation in PES was integrative over 21 days, PES was used as receiving phase for these compounds. The samplers were then deployed at lake bottoms. To ensure that exposure conditions were similar between calibration and field experiments, low-density polyethylene strips spiked with performance reference compounds were co-deployed in both experiments and dissipation data were compared. Integrative concentrations of explosives measured in the lakes confirmed results obtained by previous studies based on grab sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Estoppey
- Federal office for defence procurement (armasuisse), Feuerwerkerstrasse 39, 3602 Thun, Switzerland; School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Jörg Mathieu
- Federal office for defence procurement (armasuisse), Feuerwerkerstrasse 39, 3602 Thun, Switzerland
| | - Elena Gascon Diez
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Direction générale de la santé, Secteur des produits chimiques, République et Canton de Genève, Switzerland
| | - Eric Sapin
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Delémont
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierre Esseiva
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Batochime building, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luiz Felippe de Alencastro
- Central Environmental Laboratory, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 2, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sylvain Coudret
- Central Environmental Laboratory, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 2, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Folly
- Federal office for defence procurement (armasuisse), Feuerwerkerstrasse 39, 3602 Thun, Switzerland
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Reiss R, Gruber B, Klingbeil S, Gröger T, Ehlert S, Zimmermann R. Evaluation and application of gas chromatography - vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy for drug- and explosive precursors and examination of non-negative matrix factorization for deconvolution. Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc 2019; 219:129-134. [PMID: 31030040 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2019.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Since the introduction of a benchtop vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) absorption spectroscope with an increased wavelength range towards to the high energetic ultraviolet radiation, gas chromatography coupled to VUV has been proven a powerful tool in several fields of application such as petroleomics, permanent gas analytic, pesticide analytic and many more. In this study, the potential of GC-VUV for investigations was examined, focusing on drug- and explosive precursors as well as chemical warfare simulants. The ability of VUV absorption spectra to differentiate isomers is presented, among others for nitroaromatics. In addition, the limit of detection for target compounds was determined to 0.7 ng absolute on column. Furthermore, non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) was successfully implemented as alternative deconvolution approach and evaluated for the deconvolution of unknown substances. In comparison, the spectral library-based deconvolution was applied to a standard mixture and a simulated case study. The results reveal that the NMF is a useful additional tool for deconvolution because, unlike library-based deconvolution, it allows to investigate unknown substances as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Reiss
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Chair of Analytical Chemistry, University of Rostock, Dr.-Lorenz-Weg 2, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Beate Gruber
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sophie Klingbeil
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Chair of Analytical Chemistry, University of Rostock, Dr.-Lorenz-Weg 2, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Thomas Gröger
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Sven Ehlert
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Chair of Analytical Chemistry, University of Rostock, Dr.-Lorenz-Weg 2, 18059 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Ralf Zimmermann
- Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Chair of Analytical Chemistry, University of Rostock, Dr.-Lorenz-Weg 2, 18059 Rostock, Germany; Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre, Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstr. 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
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Tanda S, Ličbinský R, Hegrová J, Goessler W. Impact of New Year's Eve fireworks on the size resolved element distributions in airborne particles. Environ Int 2019; 128:371-378. [PMID: 31078006 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.04.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
New Year's Eve fireworks represent one of the most unusual atmospheric pollution events in the course of a year. A majority of particles aerosolized by burning of fireworks consist of metals and their compounds used in firework displays. In this study, ambient particulate matter was sampled using a 14 stage cascade impactor in two European cities during turn of the years 2016/17 and 2017/18. Concentrations of 33 elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. To assess the impact of New Year's Eve fireworks on ambient air quality, chemically resolved size distributions of particles with diameters between 15 nm and 10 μm collected during fireworks episodes were compared to ones collected in normal winter weeks. For some metals a distinct shift of their concentration maximum related to fireworks could be observed, which is in between the maxima for accumulation and coarse mode particles. Concentrations of these elements (Sr, Ba, Mg, Bi, Al, Cu and K) were also higher during weeks with fireworks episodes than during control weeks. Although New Year's Eve fireworks only take place once a year, these results show that air pollution caused by fireworks can be a potential health risk, especially for people with pre-existing diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Tanda
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Roman Ličbinský
- Transport Research Centre, Division of Sustainable Transport and Transport Buildings Diagnostics, Líšeňská 33a, 619 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Hegrová
- Transport Research Centre, Division of Sustainable Transport and Transport Buildings Diagnostics, Líšeňská 33a, 619 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Walter Goessler
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria.
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Fuller ME, Hedman PC, Lippincott DR, Hatzinger PB. Passive in situ biobarrier for treatment of comingled nitramine explosives and perchlorate in groundwater on an active range. J Hazard Mater 2019; 365:827-834. [PMID: 30481733 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2018.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), and perchlorate (ClO4-) are common, and often co-mingled, contaminants at military ranges worldwide. This project investigated the feasibility of using a passive emulsified oil biobarrier plus a slow release pH buffering reagent to remediate RDX, HMX, and ClO4- in a low pH aquifer at an active range. A 33 m biobarrier was emplaced perpendicular to the contaminant plumes, and dissolved explosives, perchlorate, and other relevant parameters were monitored. The pH increased and the DO and ORP decreased after emulsified oil injection, leading to >90% reductions in perchlorate, RDX, and HMX compared to upgradient groundwater. Some nitroso breakdown products were observed immediately downstream of the barrier, but generally decreased to below detection limits farther downgradient. First-order rate constants of approximately 0.1/d were obtained for all three contaminants. Dissolved metals (including As) also increased in the wells immediately adjacent to the barrier, but attenuated as the plume re-aerated in downgradient areas. Biobarrier installation and sampling were performed during scheduled range downtime and had no impacts to ongoing range activities. The field trial suggests that an emulsified oil biobarrier with pH buffering can be a viable alternative to remove explosives and perchlorate from shallow groundwater on active ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Fuller
- Aptim Federal Services, 17 Princess Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, United States.
| | - Paul C Hedman
- Aptim Federal Services, 17 Princess Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, United States
| | - David R Lippincott
- Aptim Federal Services, 17 Princess Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, United States
| | - Paul B Hatzinger
- Aptim Federal Services, 17 Princess Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, United States
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Peter XK, Jiba Z, Schmitz P, Ramaloko P, Stipinovich J. Effects of TNT contaminated soil on vegetation at an explosive range by probing UPLC-qTOF MS profiling method. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2019; 167:324-330. [PMID: 30347353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Three tree species (Wild olive, Stinkwood and Cape Holy) and a shrub (Dovyalis caffra) were each potted in 20 L pots in order to evaluate the effect of 1,3,5-trinitrotoluene (TNT)-contaminated soil on vegetation. TNT contamination was established by dissolving flake TNT in acetone at 300 and 600 mg per kilogram soil concentrations. One pot for every species was left uncontaminated as control elements. A set of 16 samples, four contaminated, four uncontaminated aerial parts and their corresponding soils, were gathered. These were processed and subjected to a solid phase extraction method to isolate analytes of interest. A laboratory analytical method was applied using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-qTOF MS). For the UPLC-qTOF MS a gradient for the mobile phase was found which allowed the profiling and separation of metabolites in the aerial parts of the vegetation. This method allowed identification and quantification of major changes caused by TNT contaminated soil on vegetation. The Synapt High Definition Mass Spectrometer SYNAPT HDMS G1 was operated using the electrospray ionisation (ESI) technique in both positive and negative mode. A clear comparison of profiles was achieved and this has been demonstrated by the distinct newly-formed metabolites in the TNT contaminated vegetation understudy. The results have also shown that the chlorophyll region in the contaminated profile was also affected by the uptake of TNT degradation products. This has been observed in the contaminated profiles of Wild olive, Stinkwood and Cape Holly extracts indicating enhanced nutrient availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xolani Kevin Peter
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Landward Sciences), Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa.
| | - Zetu Jiba
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Landward Sciences), Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Peter Schmitz
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Landward Sciences), Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa; Department of Geography, University of South Africa, Florida, 1709, South Africa
| | - Piet Ramaloko
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Landward Sciences), Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Jonathan Stipinovich
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (Landward Sciences), Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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Giordano BC, Siefert R, Collins GE. Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1906:87-97. [PMID: 30488387 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8964-5_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) is a mode of capillary electrophoresis that allows for the separation of neutral molecules in an electric field. Typically, neutral molecules move with electroosmotic flow (EOF) or bulk flow during electrophoretic separations resulting in no temporal resolution between mixtures of neutral analytes. Inclusion of surfactant micelles in the separation buffer allows for the separation of neutral analytes from one another through association with the micelle. Here we outline the implementation of MEKC for the separation of neutral molecules using a mixture of nitroaromatic explosives and their degradation products serving as a test analyte mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braden C Giordano
- Chemistry Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Ronald Siefert
- Chemistry Department , United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD, USA
| | - Greg E Collins
- Chemistry Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
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37
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Gordon D, Nawała J, Szala M, Dziedzic D, Dawidziuk B, Popiel S. Development of analytical methods used for the study of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene degradation kinetics in simulated sediment samples from the Baltic Sea. Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 135:397-410. [PMID: 30301051 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Large amounts of ammunition containing 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and other substances were dumped in the Baltic Sea after WWII. Considering progressive corrosion processes, studying the transformation of TNT occurring in the environment constitutes an important aspect of a possible associated risk. This study focused on the transformations of TNT in simulated conditions of the Baltic Sea bottom sediment. Methods of analysis of TNT and selected products of its transformations were developed for that purpose. The developed methods allowed for the determination of selected compounds below 1 ng/g. Systematic monitoring of TNT transformations in the environment of the bottom sediment was performed. This allowed for the determination of the kinetics of TNT degradation and identification of degradation reaction products. Based on the obtained results, the TNT decay half-time in conditions present in the Baltic Sea was estimated to be 16.7 years for the abiotic environment and 5.6 for the biotic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Gordon
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Nawała
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Mateusz Szala
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Dziedzic
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Dawidziuk
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Stanisław Popiel
- Military University of Technology, Institute of Chemistry, Gen. W. Urbanowicza 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
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Abstract
Delhi has had the distinction of being one of the most polluted cities in the world, especially in the winter months from October—January. These months coincide with the religious festival of Diwali. It is argued that air quality gets worse in the aftermath of Diwali on account of firecrackers that get burned during the festival. We use hourly data on PM 2.5 particulate concentration from 2013 to 2017 to estimate the Diwali effect on air quality in Delhi. We improve on existing work by using the event study technique as well as a difference-in-difference regression framework to estimate the Diwali effect on air quality. The results suggest that Diwali leads to a small, but statistically significant increase in air pollution. The effect is different across locations within Delhi. To our knowledge, this is the first causal estimate of the contribution of Diwali firecracker burning to air pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhananjay Ghei
- Department of Economics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Renuka Sane
- National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, Delhi, India
- * E-mail:
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Trofimov VA, Varentsova SA. High effective time-dependent THz spectroscopy method for the detection and identification of substances with inhomogeneous surface. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201297. [PMID: 30091995 PMCID: PMC6084863 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We discuss an effective time-dependent THz spectroscopy method for the detection and identification of a substance with an inhomogeneous surface using a broadband THz signal reflected from the substance. We show that a successful and reliable identification can be made using the single long-duration THz signal, which contains not only the main reflected pulse, but also several sub-pulses. The method does not use averaging of the measured THz signals over the viewing angles and scanning over the surface area, which significantly increases the signal processing speed. The identification is based on the method of spectral dynamics analysis together with the integral correlation criteria (ICC). We compare the absorption spectral dynamics of a substance under analysis with the corresponding dynamics for a standard substance from database. For reliable and effective substance detection, we propose to use several ICC simultaneously in different time intervals, which contain not only the main pulse of the reflected THz signal, but also the sub-pulses. This way, one can detect and identify the substance in the sample with high probability. As examples of identification, we used the THz signals reflected from the plastic explosive PWM C4 with both rough and concave surface. We show that the main pulse, reflected from the inhomogeneous surface of the sample, contains information about its absorption frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vyacheslav A. Trofimov
- Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- * E-mail:
| | - Svetlana A. Varentsova
- Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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40
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Rosen G, Lotufo GR, George RD, Wild B, Rabalais LK, Morrison S, Belden JB. Field validation of POCIS for monitoring at underwater munitions sites. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018; 37:2257-2267. [PMID: 29687474 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study evaluated polar organic chemical integrative samplers (POCIS) for quantification of conventional munitions constituents, including trinitrotoluene (TNT), aminodinitrotoluenes, diaminonitrotoluenes, dinitrotoluene, and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in a field setting. The POCIS were deployed at varying distances from the commonly used explosive formulation composition B (39.5% TNT, 59.5% RDX, 1% wax) in an embayment of Santa Rosa Sound (Pensacola, FL, USA). Time-weighted averaged water concentrations from a 13-d deployment ranged from 9 to 103 ng/L for TNT and RDX, respectively, approximately 0.3 to 2 m from the source. Concentrations decreased with increasing distance from the source to below quantitation limits (5-7 ng/L) at stations greater than 2 m away. Moderate biofouling of POCIS membranes after 13 d led to a subsequent effort to quantify potential effects of biofouling on the sampling rate for munitions constituents. After biofouling was allowed to occur for periods of 0, 7, 14, or 28 d at the field site, POCIS were transferred to aquaria spiked with munitions constituents. No significant differences in uptake of TNT or RDX were observed across a gradient of biofouling presence, although the mass of fouling organisms on the membranes was statistically greater for the 28-d field exposure. The present study verified the high sensitivity and integrative nature of POCIS for relevant munitions constituents potentially present in aquatic environments, indicating that application at underwater military munitions sites may be useful for ecological risk assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2257-2267. Published 2018 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunther Rosen
- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Guilherme R Lotufo
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
| | - Robert D George
- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Bill Wild
- Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Lauren K Rabalais
- US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
| | - Shane Morrison
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jason B Belden
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA
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Warren JK, Vlahos P, Smith R, Tobias C. Investigation of a new passive sampler for the detection of munitions compounds in marine and freshwater systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018; 37:1990-1997. [PMID: 29603346 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Over the last century, unexploded ordnances have been disposed of in marine shelf systems because of a lack of cost-effective alternatives. Underwater unexploded ordnances have the potential to leak 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), commonly used chemical munitions, and contaminate local waters, biota, and sediments. The rate at which this contamination occurs in the environment is relatively unknown, and the cost- and time-prohibitive nature of sampling across sites makes mapping difficult. In the present study we assessed the efficacy of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) for sampling relatively soluble munitions compounds over a range of environmental conditions (i.e., changes in temperature and salinity) and optimized the composition of the passive sampling polymer. The EVA sampler was able to successfully detect ambient concentrations of lingering munitions compounds from field sites containing unexploded ordnances. The sampler affinity for the munitions in terms of an EVA-water partition coefficient was greater than the standard octanol water values for each target compound. Partitioning of compounds onto EVA over the natural ranges of salinity did not change significantly, although uptake varied consistently and predictably with temperature. Increasing the vinyl acetate to ethylene ratio of the polymer corresponded to an increase in uptake capacity, consistent with enhanced dipole-dipole interactions between the munitions and the polymer. This sampler provides a cost-effective means to map and track leakage of unexploded ordnances both spatially and temporally. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1990-1997. © 2018 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph K Warren
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut, Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Penny Vlahos
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut, Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Craig Tobias
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut, Groton, Connecticut, USA
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Jugnia LB, Manno D, Drouin K, Hendry M. In situ pilot test for bioremediation of energetic compound-contaminated soil at a former military demolition range site. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2018; 25:19436-19445. [PMID: 29728973 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2115-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Bioremediation was performed in situ at a former military range site to assess the performance of native bacteria in degrading hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT). The fate of these pollutants in soil and soil pore water was investigated as influenced by waste glycerol amendment to the soil. Following waste glycerol application, there was an accumulation of organic carbon that promoted microbial activity, converting organic carbon into acetate and propionate, which are intermediate compounds in anaerobic processes. This augmentation of anaerobic activity strongly correlated to a noticeable reduction in RDX concentrations in the amended soil. Changes in concentrations of RDX in pore water were similar to those observed in the soil suggesting that RDX leaching from the soil matrix, and treatment with waste glycerol, contributed to the enhanced removal of RDX from the water and soil. This was not the case with 2,4-DNT, which was neither found in pore water nor affected by the waste glycerol treatment. Results from saturated conditions and Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure testing, to investigate the environmental fate of 2,4-DNT, indicated that 2,4-DNT found on site was relatively inert and was likely to remain in its current state on the site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis B Jugnia
- Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Avenue, Montreal, QC, H4P 2R2, Canada.
| | - Dominic Manno
- Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Avenue, Montreal, QC, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Karine Drouin
- Energy, Mining and Environment Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Avenue, Montreal, QC, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Meghan Hendry
- National Defence, Garrison Petawawa, 4 CDSG Environmental Services 101 Menin Road, Building S-600, PO Box 9999, Stn Main Petawawa, ON, K8H 2X3, Canada
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Kuperman RG, Checkai RT, Simini M, Sunahara GI, Hawari J. Energetic contaminants inhibit plant litter decomposition in soil. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2018; 153:32-39. [PMID: 29407735 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.01.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Individual effects of nitrogen-based energetic materials (EMs) 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2-ADNT), 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4-ADNT), nitroglycerin (NG), and 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) on litter decomposition, an essential biologically-mediated soil process, were assessed using Orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata) straw in Sassafras sandy loam (SSL) soil, which has physicochemical characteristics that support "very high" qualitative relative bioavailability for organic chemicals. Batches of SSL soil were separately amended with individual EMs or acetone carrier control. To quantify the decomposition rates, one straw cluster was harvested from a set of randomly selected replicate containers from within each treatment, after 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 months of exposure. Results showed that soil amended with 2,4-DNT or NG inhibited litter decomposition rates based on the median effective concentration (EC50) values of 1122 mg/kg and 860 mg/kg, respectively. Exposure to 2-ADNT, 4-ADNT or CL-20 amended soil did not significantly affect litter decomposition in SSL soil at ≥ 10,000 mg/kg. These ecotoxicological data will be helpful in identifying concentrations of EMs in soil that present an acceptable ecological risk for biologically-mediated soil processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman G Kuperman
- US Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center, RDCB-DRT-M E5641, 5183 Blackhawk Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5424, USA.
| | - Ronald T Checkai
- US Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center, RDCB-DRT-M E5641, 5183 Blackhawk Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5424, USA
| | - Michael Simini
- US Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center, RDCB-DRT-M E5641, 5183 Blackhawk Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5424, USA
| | - Geoffrey I Sunahara
- Dept. Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada H9X3V9
| | - Jalal Hawari
- École Polytechnique de Montréal, Département des génies civil, géologique et des mines, 2900 boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3T 1J4
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Tsai CW, Tipple CA, Yost RA. Integration of paper spray ionization high-field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry for forensic applications. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2018; 32:552-560. [PMID: 29380926 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.8068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Paper spray ionization (PSI) is an attractive ambient ionization source for mass spectrometry (MS) since it allows the combination of surface sampling and ionization. The minimal sample preparation inherent in this approach greatly reduces the time needed for analysis. However, the ions generated from interfering compounds in the sample and the paper substrate may interfere with the analyte ions. Therefore, the integration of PSI with high-field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) is of significant interest since it should reduce the background ions entering the mass analyzer without complicating the analysis or increasing analysis time. Here we demonstrate the integration of PSI with FAIMS/MS and its potential for analysis of samples of forensic interest. METHODS In this work, the parameters that can influence the integration, including sampling and ionization by paper spray, the FAIMS separation of analytes from each other and background interferences, and the length of time that a usable signal can be observed for explosives on paper, were evaluated with the integrated system. RESULTS In the negative ion analysis of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), and 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), amounts as low as 1 ng on paper were readily observed. The successful positive ion separation of a set of illicit drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine was also achieved. In addition, the positive ion analysis of the chemical warfare agent simulants dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) and diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP) was evaluated. CONCLUSIONS The integration of PSI-FAIMS/MS was demonstrated for the analyses of explosives in negative ion mode and for illicit drugs and CW simulants in positive mode. Paper background ions that could interfere with these analyses were separated by FAIMS. The compensation voltage of an ion obtained by FAIMS provided an additional identification parameter to be combined with the mass spectrum for each analyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Wei Tsai
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit, Visiting Scientist Program, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Quantico, VA, USA
| | - Christopher A Tipple
- Counterterrorism and Forensic Science Research Unit, Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory Division, Quantico, VA, USA
| | - Richard A Yost
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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45
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Pavlovich MJ, Musselman B, Hall AB. Direct analysis in real time-Mass spectrometry (DART-MS) in forensic and security applications. Mass Spectrom Rev 2018; 37:171-187. [PMID: 27271453 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade, direct analysis in real time (DART) has emerged as a viable method for fast, easy, and reliable "ambient ionization" for forensic analysis. The ability of DART to generate ions from chemicals that might be present at the scene of a criminal activity, whether they are in the gas, liquid, or solid phase, with limited sample preparation has made the technology a useful analytical tool in numerous forensic applications. This review paper summarizes many of those applications, ranging from the analysis of trace evidence to security applications, with a focus on providing the forensic scientist with a resource for developing their own applications. The most common uses for DART in forensics are in studying seized drugs, drugs of abuse and their metabolites, bulk and detonated explosives, toxic chemicals, chemical warfare agents, inks and dyes, and commercial plant and animal products that have been adulterated for economic gain. This review is meant to complement recent reviews that have described the fundamentals of the ionization mechanism and the general use of DART. We describe a wide range of forensic applications beyond the field of analyzing drugs of abuse, which dominates the literature, including common experimental and data analysis methods. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 37:171-187, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Pavlovich
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts
| | | | - Adam B Hall
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts
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Torralba-Sanchez TL, Kuo DTF, Allen HE, Di Toro DM. Bioconcentration factors and plant-water partition coefficients of munitions compounds in barley. Chemosphere 2017; 189:538-546. [PMID: 28961539 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Plants growing in the soils at military ranges and surrounding locations are exposed, and potentially able to uptake, munitions compounds (MCs). The extent to which a compound is transferred from the environment into organisms such as plants, referred to as bioconcentration, is conventionally measured through uptake experiments with field/synthetic soils. Multiple components/phases that vary among different soil types and affect the bioavailability of the MC, however, hinder the ability to separate the effects of soil characteristics from the MC chemical properties on the resulting plant bioconcentration. To circumvent the problem, this work presents a protocol to measure steady state bioconcentration factors (BCFs) for MCs in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) using inert laboratory sand rather than field/synthetic soils. Three MCs: 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), and 2,4-dinitroanisole (2,4-DNAN), and two munition-like compounds (MLCs): 4-nitroanisole (4-NAN) and 2-methoxy-5-nitropyridine (2-M-5-NPYNE) were evaluated. Approximately constant plant biomass and exposure concentrations were achieved within a one-month period that produced steady state log BCF values: 0.62 ± 0.02, 0.70 ± 0.03, 1.30 ± 0.06, 0.52 ± 0.03, and 0.40 ± 0.05 L kgplant dwt-1 for TNT, 2,4-DNT, 2,4-DNAN, 4-NAN, and 2-M-5-NPYNE, respectively. Furthermore, results suggest that the upper-bounds of the BCFs can be estimated within an order of magnitude by measuring the partitioning of the compounds between barley biomass and water. This highlights the importance of partition equilibrium as a mechanism for the uptake of MCs and MLCs by barley from interstitial water. The results from this work provide chemically meaningful data for prediction models able to estimate the bioconcentration of these contaminants in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dave T F Kuo
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA; Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China; City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Herbert E Allen
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Dominic M Di Toro
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.
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Akmalov AE, Chistyakov AA, Kotkovskii GE, Martynov IL, Spitsin EM. Laser ion mobility spectrometry in the detection of ultra-low quantities of explosives. Eur J Mass Spectrom (Chichester) 2017; 23:140-145. [PMID: 29028403 DOI: 10.1177/1469066717721696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The paper presents the results of research and development of ion mobility spectrometer with laser ion sources for detecting ultra-low quantities of explosives in air. Particular attention is paid to the mechanisms of the formation of negative ions. It is shown that laser ionization with respect to ion mobility spectrometry provides an increase of sensitivity and selectivity of detection. The ion mobility spectra of the most common nitro explosives are investigated. The detection threshold for laser ion mobility spectrometer was reached at the level of 10-14 g/cm3 (for trinitrotoluene).
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Akmalov
- 1 Micro- and Nanosystems Department, National Research Nuclear University, Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Chistyakov
- 1 Micro- and Nanosystems Department, National Research Nuclear University, Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - G E Kotkovskii
- 1 Micro- and Nanosystems Department, National Research Nuclear University, Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - I L Martynov
- 1 Micro- and Nanosystems Department, National Research Nuclear University, Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, Moscow, Russia
| | - E M Spitsin
- 2 Lab.990, Stelmakh Research Institute "Polyus", Moscow, Russia
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Oh SY, Seo YD, Ryu KS, Park DJ, Lee SH. Redox and catalytic properties of biochar-coated zero-valent iron for the removal of nitro explosives and halogenated phenols. Environ Sci Process Impacts 2017; 19:711-719. [PMID: 28394378 DOI: 10.1039/c7em00035a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A novel biochar-coated zero-valent iron [Fe(0)], which was synthesized with rice straw and Fe(0), was applied to remove nitro explosives (2,4,6-trinitrotoluene and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine) and halogenated phenols (2,4-dibromophenol and 2,4-difluorophenol) from contaminated waters. Due to the presence of biochar on the outside, the removal of nitro explosives and halogenated phenols was significantly enhanced via sorption. The sorbed contaminants were further transformed into reductive products, indicating that the inner Fe(0) played the role of a reductant in the biochar-coated Fe(0). Compared to direct reduction with Fe(0), the reductive transformation with biochar-coated Fe(0) was markedly enhanced, suggesting that the biochar in biochar-coated Fe(0) may act as an electron transfer mediator. Further experiments showed that the surface functional groups of biochar were involved in the catalytic enhancement of electron transfer. Our results suggested that biomass could be used to synthesize a novel sorbent and catalyst for treating redox-sensitive contaminants in natural and engineered systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok-Young Oh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Ulsan, 93 Daehak-ro, Nam-gu, Ulsan 44610, South Korea.
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Abstract
One of the limiting steps to detecting traces of explosives at screening venues is effective collection of the sample. Wipe-sampling is the most common procedure for collecting traces of explosives, and standardized measurements of collection efficiency are needed to evaluate and optimize sampling protocols. The approach described here is designed to provide this measurement infrastructure, and controls most of the factors known to be relevant to wipe-sampling. Three critical factors (the applied force, travel distance, and travel speed) are controlled using an automated device. Test surfaces are chosen based on similarity to the screening environment, and the wipes can be made from any material considered for use in wipe-sampling. Particle samples of the explosive 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) are applied in a fixed location on the surface using a dry-transfer technique. The particle samples, recently developed to simulate residues made after handling explosives, are produced by inkjet printing of RDX solutions onto polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) substrates. Collection efficiency is measured by extracting collected explosive from the wipe, and then related to critical sampling factors and the selection of wipe material and test surface. These measurements are meant to guide the development of sampling protocols at screening venues, where speed and throughput are primary considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey A Lawrence
- Materials Measurement Science Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology
| | - Matthew E Staymates
- Materials Measurement Science Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology
| | - Edward Sisco
- Materials Measurement Science Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology
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Arthur JD, Mark NW, Taylor S, Šimunek J, Brusseau ML, Dontsova KM. Batch soil adsorption and column transport studies of 2,4-dinitroanisole (DNAN) in soils. J Contam Hydrol 2017; 199:14-23. [PMID: 28285171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2016] [Revised: 02/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) is currently a main ingredient in munitions; however the compound has failed to meet the new sensitivity requirements. The replacement compound being tested is 2,4-dinitroanisole (DNAN). DNAN is less sensitive to shock, high temperatures, and has good detonation characteristics. However, DNAN is more soluble than TNT, which can influence transport and fate behavior and thus bioavailability and human exposure potential. The objective of this study was to investigate the environmental fate and transport of DNAN in soil, with specific focus on sorption processes. Batch and column experiments were conducted using soils collected from military installations located across the United States. The soils were characterized for pH, electrical conductivity, specific surface area, cation exchange capacity, and organic carbon content. In the batch rate studies, change in DNAN concentration with time was evaluated using the first order equation, while adsorption isotherms were fitted using linear and Freundlich equations. Solution mass-loss rate coefficients ranged between 0.0002h-1 and 0.0068h-1. DNAN was strongly adsorbed by soils with linear adsorption coefficients ranging between 0.6 and 6.3Lg-1, and Freundlich coefficients between 1.3 and 34mg1-nLnkg-1. Both linear and Freundlich adsorption coefficients were positively correlated with the amount of organic carbon and cation exchange capacity of the soil, indicating that similar to TNT, organic matter and clay minerals may influence adsorption of DNAN. The results of the miscible-displacement column experiments confirmed the impact of sorption on retardation of DNAN during transport. It was also shown that under flow conditions DNAN transforms readily with formation of amino transformation products, 2-ANAN and 4-ANAN. The magnitudes of retardation and transformation observed in this study result in significant attenuation potential for DNAN, which would be anticipated to contribute to a reduced risk for contamination of ground water from soil residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Arthur
- Soil, Water and Environmental Science Department, University of Arizona, United States.
| | - Noah W Mark
- Soil, Water and Environmental Science Department, University of Arizona, United States
| | - Susan Taylor
- U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, United States
| | - J Šimunek
- University of California, Riverside, United States
| | - M L Brusseau
- Soil, Water and Environmental Science Department, University of Arizona, United States; Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences Department, University of Arizona, United States
| | - Katerina M Dontsova
- Soil, Water and Environmental Science Department, University of Arizona, United States; Biosphere 2, University of Arizona, United States
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