15N isotopic analyses: a powerful tool to establish links between seized 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) tablets.
In this study the (15)N/(14)N isotopic ratios of 43 samples of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) samples were measured using Gas Chromatography-Combustion-Isotope-Ratio Mass Spectrometry (GC-C-IRMS). The results show a large discrimination between samples with a range of delta(15)N values between -16 and +19 per thousand. Comparison between delta(15)N values and other physical and chemical parameters shows a strong relationship between delta(15)N and brand logo or composition. Thus, it could be assumed that tablets from different seizures probably originated from the same clandestine manufacturing source. Hence, (15)N isotopic parameters provide an important additional tool to establish common origins between seizures of clandestine synthetic drugs.
Palhol
Fabien
F
Laboratoire des Douanes de Paris, 1 rue G. Vicaire, 75141, Paris Cedex 03, France. fpalhol@wanadoo.fr
Lamoureux
Catherine
C
Naulet
Norbert
N
D015198:Designer Drugs / Q000032:analysis*; D008401:Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine / Q000032:analysis*; D009587:Nitrogen Isotopes; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013607:Tablets
D015198:Designer Drugs; D009587:Nitrogen Isotopes; D013607:Tablets; D018817:N-Methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine