The Potential of Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) and Gas Chromatography-IRMS Analysis of Triacetone Triperoxide in Forensic Explosives Investigations

Studying links between triacetone triperoxide (TATP) samples from crime scenes and suspects can assist in criminal investigations. Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and gas chromatography (GC)‐IRMS were used to measure the isotopic compositions of TATP and its precursors acetone and hydrogen pe...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of forensic sciences 2016-09, Vol.61 (5), p.1198-1207
Main Authors: Bezemer, Karlijn D. B., Koeberg, Mattijs, van der Heijden, Antoine E. D. M., van Driel, Chris A., Blaga, Cornelia, Bruinsma, Jildert, van Asten, Arian C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Chromatography
Explosives
forensic science
Forensic sciences
gas chromatography isotope ratio mass spectrometry
isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Isotopes
Mass spectrometry
precursors
Scientific imaging
triacetone triperoxide
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Summary:Studying links between triacetone triperoxide (TATP) samples from crime scenes and suspects can assist in criminal investigations. Isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and gas chromatography (GC)‐IRMS were used to measure the isotopic compositions of TATP and its precursors acetone and hydrogen peroxide. In total, 31 TATP samples were synthesized with different raw material combinations and reaction conditions. For carbon, a good differentiation and a linear relationship were observed for acetone–TATP combinations. The extent of negative (δ13C) fractionation depended on the reaction yield. Limited enrichment was observed for the hydrogen isotope (δ2H) values of the TATP samples probably due to a constant exchange of hydrogen atoms in aqueous solution. For oxygen (δ18O), the small isotopic range and excess of water in hydrogen peroxide resulted in poor differentiation. GC‐IRMS and IRMS data were comparable except for one TATP sample prepared with high acid concentration demonstrating the potential of compound‐specific isotope analysis. Carbon IRMS has practical use in forensic TATP investigations.
ISSN:0022-1198
1556-4029
DOI:10.1111/1556-4029.13135