Thesis
High resolution Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for the qualitative analysis of explosive precursors in the vapour phase
- Creator
- Rights statement
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2014
- Thesis identifier
- T13897
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) has applications in many areas of forensic science. The ability to produce information rich spectra is of particular use for the characterisation and discrimination of materials. High resolution FTIR can produce even more detailed spectra and therefore improved characterisation and discrimination. However, the production of information rich spectra requires suitable statistical tools for analysis, with multivariate analysis often used. The mid infrared region contains the 'fingerprint region' which is used for the detection and identification of many different materials, and is therefore an area of investigation in the field of explosives detection. This research aimed to utilise high resolution mid infrared FTIR for the characterisation of explosive precursors in the vapour phase. Detailed examination of the spectra produced would provide information on spectral regions that could be applied as targets for detection systems, for example those based upon Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs). By building up detailed knowledge of the spectra produced by different materials this research aimed to determine the most suitable spectral regions for the identification of explosive precursors. In addition, this research aimed to investigate whether it was possible to use high resolution FTIR to discriminate between laboratory grade materials and their shop bought counterparts containing additives and impurities. Acetone, alcohols and hydrogen peroxide were analysed in this work. The research also aimed to determine whether brand discrimination was still viable following concentration of two hydrogen peroxide containing brands. The ability to identify that a material had been concentrated but tie it back to its brand would be of great significance for intelligence gathering. The findings of this research demonstrate that high resolution FTIR can successfully be applied to the characterisation of explosive precursors and, in combination with chemometric techniques, discriminate between different precursor brands even following concentration of the precursor material.
- Resource Type
- DOI
- Date Created
- 2014
- Former identifier
- 1041838
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