To facilitate the development of a non-contact detection method, the volatile signature of fentanyl was explored using a solid phase microextraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS) method.
The immense potency of fentanyl and its persistent use poses great danger to abusers and law enforcement personnel. With just a few milligrams capable of causing an overdose, most agencies advise personnel to avoid handling fentanyl or related materials directly. However, there are limited field-portable and non-contact methods for the detection of fentanyl. Thus, the development of a non-contact field portable detection method is essential. The collection and analysis of these vapor signatures in the current study has provided an essential stepping-stone in the future development of a non-contact vapor detection method for fentanyl. (Publisher abstract provided)