Forensic Identification of Explosives by Mass Spectrometry and Allied Techniques.

In forensic analysis of explosives, analytical methods are required that combine good separation characteristics with highly specific and sensitive detection. Two novel techniques, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) have such specifications. These are now well-established analytical techniques for separation and identification of mixtures and for trace analysis of selected components. The principles and instrumentation of LC/MS and MS/MS are described, as well as their applications, in forensic identification of explosives residues and detection of hidden explosives.