Analytical Tools and Methods for Explosive Analysis in Forensics: A Critical Review

Abstract

This review summarizes (i) compositions and types of improvised explosive devices; (ii) the process of collection, extraction and analysis of explosive evidence encountered in explosive and related cases; (iii) inter-comparison of analytical techniques; (iv) the challenges and prospects of explosive detection technology. The highlights of this study include extensive information regarding the National & International standards specified by USEPA, ASTM, and so on, for explosives detection. The holistic development of analytical tools for explosive analysis ranging from conventional methods to advanced analytical tools is also covered in this article. The most important aspect of this review is to make forensic scientists familiar with the challenges during explosive analysis and the steps to avoid them. The problems during analysis can be analyte-based, that is, interferences due to matrix or added molding/stabilizing agents, trace amount of parent explosives in post-blast samples and many more. Others are techniques-based challenges viz. specificity, selectivity, and sensitivity of the technique. Thus, it has become a primary concern to adopt rapid, field deployable, and highly sensitive techniques.

Graphical Abstract

HIGHLIGHTS

• Improvised explosive devices; composition, types.

• Evidence encountered in explosion cases; collection, extraction, analysis.

• Standard protocols for explosive analysis.

• Comparison of analytical techniques on the basis of the target analyte and detection limit.

• Recent advances in analytical techniques for explosive analysis.

• Challenges in trace detection of explosives and steps to overcome them.

Keywords:

• Explosive analysis
• forensic explosive investigation
• instrumental techniques
• standard protocols

Acknowledgement

The authors are grateful to Dr. Amita Dev, Vice Chancellor, IGDTUW, Delhi for her consistent guidance and inspiration.