Analysis of Explosive Residues and Post Explosion Analysis

Abstract

One of the more challenging areas in the field of explosives is the analysis of explosive residues. The detection and identification of explosive traces on individuals, on clothing, in houses, in cars and on other related items are aimed to establish whether a contact with explosives has occurred. Such contact could indicate illegal possession or handling explosives or a possible involvement in shooting. Also, analysis of post explosion residues is one of the most technically difficult subjects in forensic science. The residual explosive has to be isolated from large amount of debris, often covering wide areas, and including large number of interfering items. In this work, in order to optimize a proper methodic way for post explosion analysis, artificial post explosion samples were created by mixing trace quantities of commonly used explosives with sand soil. Then sample extraction, filtration and concentration were carried out. Soil sample without any explosive traces was taken as a blank. The concentrated organic extract was then subjected to different available analytical chromatographic methods mainly HPLC, TLC, and spot test. Minimum detection limit of each technique was determined by gradually decreasing the amount of explosive residues in soil. Real explosions were carried out in the field, and post explosion samples were collected and investigated till complete identification of the exploded charge [1][2][3][4][5].