The Use of Gas Chromatography to Test for Traces of Explosives

Chromatography can be an extremely valuable tool in the detection of explosives. Following an explosion, it is crucial to a police investigation to identify if an explosive was used, and if so what type. Finding traces of explosives on a suspects clothing or belongings can link that suspect to a case. Once trace samples are collected, the amount of explosives in the sample can be on the low nanogram range.

TEA detectors, coupled with GC are widely used for the forensic analysis of trace explosives. Its simple operation, very high sensitivity and very high selectivity for nitroso compounds, makes the TEA a superior choice of detector for this application.

The Ellutia 800 series TEA is already being used in the world class Dubai Police science and criminology laboratory, and a detailed case study can be found on Ellutia’s website.

More information online: https://ilmt.co/PL/pZ9v