Qualitative Analysis of Post-blast Residue using the Double Hyphenated UHPLC-(HESI)-MS/MS Technique

Abstract

In this paper, the identification and forensic analysis of post-blast residues recovered from controlled blast sites has been presented. The targeted sample was extracted from post-blast soil by using the Accelerated Solvent Extraction technique. The average recovery varies from 86-93% at 250, 500,750 and 1000 ng/g concentration level. The target compound was primarily identified to be PETN (Penta Erythritol Tetra Nitrate) by a color test and TLC (Thin Layer Chromatography). The confirmatory test for the target analyte was done by using LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography - Tandem Mass Spectrometry). Heated Electron Spray Ionization (HESI) interface with negative mode was employed and SRM (Selected Reaction Monitoring) on Triple Quadruple Mass Analyzer was used for confirmation of PETN in the sample. The Limit of Detection (LOD) obtained from the analysis of post-blast residue by using this method was 7.9 ng/g. This manuscript demonstrates the viability of LC-MS/MS for a fast, accurate and quality-assured analysis of post-blast residue.