The evaluation of solid phase micro-extraction fibre types for the analysis of organic components in unburned propellant powders

This work describes the evaluation of various solid phase micro-extraction (SPME) fibre types for the detection of compounds originating from particles of unburned propellant powders. These compounds may also be found in association with organic gunshot residues (OGSR). Seven SPME fibres were assessed based on their ability to extract the compounds of interest (diphenylamine (DPA), 4-nitrodiphenylamine (4-NDPA), ethyl centralite (EC), nitroglycerin (NG) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP)) from four ammunition types across three calibres (9 mm, 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm). Extracts were analysed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Results indicated that the 65 μm polydimethylsiloxane/divinylbenzene (PDMS/DVB) was the most suitable fibre type for the extraction of these compounds across the ammunition types tested. Optimal extraction time parameters were also assessed with a 35-min period determined to be suitable. A number of previously unreported considerations for extracting propellant powders and potentially OGSR related materials are discussed.