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Ammonia chemical ionization of the explosives pentaerythritoltetranitrate and dipentaerythritol hexanitrate

Conference ·
OSTI ID:5193757
The electron mass spectrum of the secondary explosive pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN) is dominated by three major ions: M/Z 46(NO/sub 2/)/sup +/, the base peak, M/Z 30(NO)/sup +/, and M/Z 76(CH/sub 2/O NO/sub 2/)/sup +/. Thus, its distinction from the spectra of other functionally similar explosives is difficult by this ionization method alone. Positive chemical ionization mass spectra of PETN (M.W. 316) have previously been acquired by several workers utilizing various reagent gases, such as methane, isobutane, hydrogen, and water. The present investigation evaluates the potential analytical application of ammonia as a complementary chemical ionization reagent for the analysis of PETN and its homolog dipentaerythritol hexanitrate (DIPEHN) (M.W. 524).
Research Organization:
Mound Facility, Miamisburg, OH (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00053
OSTI ID:
5193757
Report Number(s):
MLM-2950(OP); CONF-820630-4; ON: DE82015842
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English