Multiple stable isotope characterization as a forensic tool to distinguish acid scavenger samples
Acid scavengers are frequently used as stabilizer compounds in a variety of applications. When used to stabilize volatile compounds such as nerve agents, the lower volatility and higher stability of acid scavengers make them more persistent in a post-event forensic setting. We are employing compound-specific stable isotope analysis of the carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen components of three acid scavenging compounds (N,N-diethylaniline, tributylamine, and triethylamine) as a tool for distinguishing between different samples of the stabilizers. Combined analysis of three stable isotopes in these samples improves the technique’s resolving potential, enhancing sample matching capabilities. The compound specific methods developed here can be applied to instances where these compounds are not pure, such as when mixed with an agent or when found as a residue at an event site. Effective sample matching can be crucial for linking compounds at multiple event sites or linking a supply inventory to an event.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States). Environmental Molecular Sciences Lab. (EMSL)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 1033047
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-74537; JFSCAS; 33990; TRN: US201202%%549
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Forensic Sciences, 57(1):60-63, Vol. 57, Issue 1; ISSN 0022-1198
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
AVAILABILITY
CARBON
HYDROGEN
NERVES
NITROGEN
RESIDUES
SCAVENGING
STABILITY
STABLE ISOTOPES
VOLATILITY
Forensic science
compound-specific isotope analysis
stable isotope
acid scavenger
nerve agent
sarin
triethylamine
N-N-diethylaniline
tributylamine
Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory