High-resolution field desorption mass spectrometry: Part VII. Explosives and Explosive Mixtures4

Standard explosives and technical mixtures of explosives have been investigated by field desorption mass spectrometry. The compounds investigated gave intense molecular ions or protonated molecules and structurally significant fragmentation. For comparison, the corresponding electron impact and chemical ionization mass spectrometry data are reported. Emission-controlled field desorption, photographic detection, and accurate mass measurements enabled the components of the technical mixtures to be identified. An example of the determination of an additive in a technical product by field desorption mass spectrometry and stable isotope dilution is given. The use of these techniques for quality control of explosives and for forensic investigations appears to be promising.