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Analysis of Gunshot Primer Residue Collection Swabs by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry

NCJ Number
174706
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 43 Issue: 4 Dated: July 1998 Pages: 748-754
Author(s)
R D Koons
Date Published
1998
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Concentrations of antimony, barium, and lead in gunshot residue collection swab extract solutions were determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.
Abstract
Analytical advantages of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry were lack of interference by swab extract constituents, low detection limits, wide linear dynamic ranges, short analysis times, and good precision and accuracy. The procedures allowed the determination of levels of additional elements possibly associated with handling weapon or ammunition components. The author concludes plasma-mass spectrometry techniques are applicable to both hand blank and shooter- associated levels of antimony, barium, and lead in gunshot residue swab extracts. Experimental details on spiking and extraction procedures, instrumental operating parameters, nonspectral interferences, precision and accuracy, detection limits, washout times, and recovery efficiency are provided. 16 references, 3 tables, and 5 figures