Journal of Forensic Research

An Arson Investigation by using Comprehensive Two-dimensional Gas Chromatography- Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Taylor CM, Rosenhan AK, Raines JM and Rodriguez JM

The aim of this investigation is to develop a new tool for the investigation of hydrocarbon accelerants. The chemical analysis of fire debris in an arson investigation has gone through several developmental stages. The nature of the analysis has been divided into three essential components due to the complexity of the samples. The first has been the extraction of the accelerants from the debris. The second has been the development of instrumental techniques for the analysis of extracted samples. The interpretation of the results is the final stage. In our investigation, we have used comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-quadrupole mass spectrometry (GCXGC-qMS). GCXGC-qMS is well suited for the analysis of complex hydrocarbon accelerants. We applied the resolution and separation powers of the GCXGC with the high precision mass scanning capabilities of a quadrupole mass spectrometer to investigate these complex samples. Total and selective ion scans were performed on samples obtained from an arson investigation. By using this process, we were able to conclusively determine the presence of hydrocarbon accelerants in fire debris.