Rapid field screening test for determination of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in water and soil with immunofiltration

A rapid field screening test for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in water and soil is described. The immunofiltration assay is based on a simplified enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) performed in a pre-packed portable device. Performance of the test was assayed in spiked water, methanolic soil extracts (dilution 1: 10) and natural water samples. A quantitative colour response to concentrations of TNT in the range of 1 to 30 g/l in water and 50 to 1000 g/kg in soil is demonstrated. The relative average standard deviations are 11.9% and 14.1%, respectively. High correlations between immunofiltration, ELISA and gas chromatography have been demonstrated. The cross reactivities of the antibody are comparable in both techniques.Dedicated to Professor Dr. Dieter Klockow on the occasion of his 60th birthday