Characterization of organic gunshot residues in lead-free ammunition using a new sample collection device for liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

•The LC–QTOF method in MS/MS mode enables the characterization of OGSR.•The PTFE tape lift device provides excellent recoveries of OGSR on shooter's hands.•Seventeen compounds are used for the identification of OGSR.•Nitro-DPA products and centralites were identified, providing strong evidence for GSR.

The identification of characteristic organic gunshot residues (OGSR) provides conclusive evidence in the elucidation of elemental profiles when lead-free ammunition is fired. OGSR also prevents false negatives. Toward this aim, a quick and efficient method based on liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC–QTOF) was developed to detect and identify 18 gunpowder additives in gunshot residues (GSR). The unequivocal identification of target analytes was assured by using MS/MS mode. Swabs were compared with home-modified tape lift supports covered with a PTFE layer to determine the better sampling technique. The modified tape lift provided better extraction recoveries and enabled the analysis of inorganic and organic GSR simultaneously. The developed method was applied to the analysis of GSR from four different lead-free ammunitions. Diphenylamine and its nitrated degradation products and centralites were identified in all samples, providing strong evidence of GSR.

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