A rapid method for detection of gunshot residue using microwave plasma torch-mass spectrometry

Recent advances in ambient mass spectrometry of trace explosives

Ambient mass spectrometry has evolved rapidly over the past decade, yielding a plethora of platforms and demonstrating scientific advancements across a range of fields from biological imaging to rapid quality control. These techniques have enabled real-time detection of target analytes in an open environment with no sample preparation and can be coupled to any mass analyzer with an atmospheric pressure interface; capabilities of clear interest to the defense, customs and border control, transportation security, and forensic science communities. This review aims to showcase and critically discuss advances in ambient mass spectrometry for the trace detection of explosives.

Differentiation Using Microwave Plasma Torch Desorption Mass Spectrometry of Navel Oranges Cultivated in Neighboring Habitats

The molecular fingerprinting of intact fruit samples combined with statistical data analysis can allow the assessment of fruit quality and location of origin. Herein, microwave plasma torch desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MPT-MS) was applied to produce molecular fingerprints for the juice sac and exocarp of navel oranges cultivated in three closely located habitats, and the mass spectrometric fingerprints were differentiated by principal component analysis (PCA). Because of the relatively high temperature and high ionization efficiency of MPT, the volatile aroma compounds and semivolatile chemicals in the navel oranges were sensitively detected and confidently identified by collision induced dissociation (CID). The limit of detection (LOD) of MPT-MS for vanillin was 0.119 μg/L, with the relative standard deviation (RSD, n = 10) of 1.7%. The results showed that MPT-MS could be a powerful analytical platform for the sensitive molecular analysis of fruits at molecular level with high chemical specificity, allowing differentiation between the same sorts grown in neighboring habitats.