A fluorometric sensing array for the detection of military explosives and IED materials

Authors

Christopher A. Latendresse, University of Rhode Island
Syrena C. Fernandes, University of Rhode Island
Sangmin You, University of Rhode Island
Hui Qi Zhang, University of Rhode Island
William B. Euler, University of Rhode Island

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

10-21-2013

Abstract

A fluorometric sensing array was developed to detect and discern common military explosives and materials used in improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Xanthene-based fluorophores were chosen as reporter molecules and were exposed to explosive analytes in DMF solution. Unique responses were observed for each analyte, with the strongest observed responses resulting from trinitrobenzene (TNB) or trinitrotoluene (TNT) addition. Evidence for substantial electron transfer (ET) between TNB and TNT products and fluorophores was observed. Computational results indicate that anionic trinitroaromatic products are likely donating electrons to cationic fluorophores, leading to an observed enhancement of their emission. © 2013 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Analytical Methods

Volume

5

Issue

20

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Latendresse, Christopher A., Syrena C. Fernandes, Sangmin You, Hui Qi Zhang, and William B. Euler. "A fluorometric sensing array for the detection of military explosives and IED materials." Analytical Methods 5, 20 (2013): 5457-5463. doi: 10.1039/c3ay40293b.