title: Characterization of organic gunshot residues in lead-free ammunition using a new sample collection device for liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.
abstract: The identification of characteristic organic gunshot residues (OGSR) provides conclusive evidence in the elucidation of elemental profiles when lead-free ammunition is fired. OGSR also prevents false negatives. Toward this aim, a quick and efficient method based on liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF) was developed to detect and identify 18 gunpowder additives in gunshot residues (GSR). The unequivocal identification of target analytes was assured by using MS/MS mode. Swabs were compared with home-modified tape lift supports covered with a PTFE layer to determine the better sampling technique. The modified tape lift provided better extraction recoveries and enabled the analysis of inorganic and organic GSR simultaneously. The developed method was applied to the analysis of GSR from four different lead-free ammunitions. Diphenylamine and its nitrated degradation products and centralites were identified in all samples, providing strong evidence of GSR.
authors.affiliation: Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
authors.forename: Sandra
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Benito
authors.affiliation: Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
authors.forename: Zuriñe
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Abrego
authors.affiliation: Central Service of Analysis, SGIker, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
authors.forename: Alicia
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sánchez
authors.affiliation: Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
authors.forename: Nora
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Unceta
authors.affiliation: Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
authors.forename: M Aranzazu
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Goicolea
authors.affiliation: Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, E-01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. Electronic address: r.barrio@ehu.es.
authors.forename: Ramón J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Barrio
keywords: Organic gunshot residue; QTOF mass spectrometry; Tape lift