Enhanced Forensic Mass Spectrometry Methods

The goal of this award is to develop a better, faster and potentially less expensive method for identifying and measuring chemicals of forensic interest, and to facilitate the broad dissemination of the methods for use by forensic chemists and toxicologists. Mass spectrometric methods are recognized as the best methods for the identification of chemicals, especially of controlled substances. This project will develop methods that utilize multistage MS techniques, primarily MS/MS/MS (MS3), that will decrease sample processing time, decrease hazardous solvent use, obviate derivatization steps, potentially decrease the need for extensive sample preparation, and provide increased confidence in chemical identifications relevant to the practice of forensic chemistry and toxicology. Methods will be developed and validated jointly at the West Virginia University and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of West Virginia.

ca/ncf