Direct Real-Time Detection of RDX Vapors Under Ambient Conditions

Journal Article · Tue Jan 15 00:00:00 EST 2013 · Analytical Chemistry, 85(1):389-397

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ac302828g· OSTI ID:1063700

Ewing, Robert G; Atkinson, David A; Clowers, Brian H

The results in this manuscript represent a demonstration of RDX vapor detection in real time at ambient temperature without sample pre-concentration. The detection of vapors from the low volatility explosive compound RDX was achieved through selective atmospheric pressure chemical ionization using nitrate reactant ions (NO3-), and NO3-•HNO3 adducts generated in an electrical discharge source. The RDX vapors were ionized in a reaction region, which provided a variable (up to several seconds) reaction time. The reaction times were controlled by either flow in an atmospheric flow tube (AFT) or by electric field in an atmospheric drift tube (ADT). Both AFT and ADT were interfaced to a quadrupole mass spectrometer for ion detection and identification. Recorded signals were observed for RDX concentrations below 25 ppq using selected ion monitoring (SIM) of the RDX-nitrate adduct at m/z 284.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 1063700
• Report Number(s): PNNL-SA-90938
• Journal Information: Analytical Chemistry, 85(1):389-397, Journal Name: Analytical Chemistry, 85(1):389-397
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English