In 2005, a revolutionary new technique was introduced in which samples could be ionized at ambient atmospheric conditions for the purposes of subsequent high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis1. This instrumental technique, known as Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) allows for mass spectral analysis of complex samples with minimal sample preparation, making it an ideal analytical option for a wide range of sample types.
Since its inception, DART has been utilized in multiple forensic chemistry disciplines, including, but not limited to, drug analysis2,3, explosives analysis4-5, trace evidence analysis,6 and questioned documents examination7. The aim of the literature thesis is to explore the forensic applications of DART-TOF in further detail with particular emphasis on recent advances and improvements.
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REQUIRED / RECOMMENDED EXPERTISE
Basic understanding in forensic chemistry. Familiarity with time-of-flight mass spectrometry and ambient ionization is recommended.
Institute: | Virginia Department of Forensic Science |
Department: | Controlled Substances |
Supervisor : | Jennifer Bonetti |
UVA Co-assessor : |
Arian van Asten |
UVA Coordinator : | Arian van Asten/Yorike Hartman |