Session: Undergraduate Research Posters: Analytical Chemistry:

Due to many firearm-related crimes committed every year, the detection of Gunshot Residue (GSR) is used to aid in numerous criminal investigations. As an attempt to avoid the release of heavy metals into the environment, lead and heavy-metal free primers are being used in manufacturing. Traditional methods for detection of Inorganic Gunshot Residue (IGSR) will become less prevalent and replaced by Organic Gunshot Residue (OGSR) detection. Studies to determine the fastest and most efficient method for the collection and analysis of OGSR are underway. This research aims to use the optimal extraction procedure for detection of OGSR collected from a silicone wristband used as a personal passive sampling device, to simulate crime scene evidence. Analysis of OGSR was carried out by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with a Poroshell 120 EC-C18 column at 45 degrees C, using an isocratic separation with 50:50 acetonitrile:water and DAD detection. Silicone bracelets worn by a volunteer shooter were collected in triplicate over a period of several wait times. The bracelets were placed in vials and extracted using methanol: acetonitrile (25:75) solution. Samples were preconcentrated and analyzed by HPLC. Results of the analysis are compared to those of seven common OGSR standards of diphenylamine (DPA), ethyl centralite (EC), N-nitrodiphenylamine (N-nDPA), 4-nitrodiphenylamine (4-nDPA), 2-nitrodiphenylamine (2-nDPA), akardite II (AK II), N,N-diphenylformamide (N,N-DPF), and dimethyl phthalate (DMP). This collection and analysis method focused on using HPLC analysis using silicone bracelets worn by volunteer shooters to indicate whether or not previously determined methods can be used in instances where an firearm-related crime has occurred. Results of the analysis will be presented and compared to previous research.

Christopher Dockery

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