Enhanced Detection of Nitroaromatic Vapors with a Cryotrap and Solute Modulation Through Electron Attachment Reactions

Abstract

An integrated approach for enhanced detection of nitroaromatic compounds in the vapor phase is being investigated. The approach involves the use of a very low volume cryoconcentrator with rapid desorbing capabilities. The concentrator desorber is coupled to solute modulated detection systems. Modulation of nitroaromatics via electron attachment reactions holds potential for nitroaromatics because of high electron affinity of these compounds. Under suitable conditions, i.e., low solute concentration and high electron population, these reactions occur at coulometric limits. The results show that the concentrator system permits rapid, quantitative enrichment of semivolatile nitroaromatics. Results of electron attachment reaction show that these reactions lead to disintegration of nitroaromatic radicals while the potentially interfering compounds such as polyhalogenated aromatics undergo hydrochlorination and yield distinctive products. These differences can be used for modulation of nitroaromatic compounds at low concentrations.

Meeting Name

Detection and Remediation Technologies for Mines and Minelike Targets III (1998: Apr. 1-3, Orlando, FL)

Department(s)

Chemistry

Second Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Aromatic Compounds; Bombs (Ordnance); Concentration (Process); Desorption; Electrons; Explosives; Lead Compounds; Mines; Modulation; Pollution; Remediation; Vapors; DNT; Electron Attachment; Enrichment; Explosive Vapors; Land Mines; TNT; Electron Affinity

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0277-786X

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 1998 SPIE -- The International Society for Optical Engineering, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Apr 1998

Link to Full Text

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