Techniques for the Detection and Identification of Amphetamines and Amphetamine-Like Substances

• NCJ Number: 119823
• Journal: Bulletin on Narcotics Volume: 37 Issue: 1 Dated: special issue (January-March 1985) Pages: 95-112
• Author(s): K E Rasmussen; P Knutsen
• Date Published: 1985
• Length: 18 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: Austria
• Note: Special issue on Scientific developments relating to detection techniques for the control of drugs

Annotation

This article discusses several analytical techniques used by forensic chemists to detect and identify amphetamines and amphetamine-like substances in nonbiological samples.

Abstract

Common methods used in the analysis of amphetamines are discussed, including those that are simple and inexpensive as well as those that are sophisticated and advanced. Methods used to identify the individual drugs in street drugs are briefly identified. The following analytical techniques are identified and discussed: microcrystal tests, ultraviolet spectrophotometry, color tests, gas chromatography, fluorescence spectrometry, thin-layer chromatography, infra-red and Raman spectophotometry, and high performance liquid chromatography. 63 footnotes. (Author abstract modified.)