Advanced DDT-IMS technology speeds up detection of TNT-derived metabolites
Self-developed DDT-IMS technology can rapidly detect TNT-derived metabolites, offering a sensitive, dual-mode method for monitoring toxic exposure.
Researchers have developed an advanced dual drift tube ion mobility spectrometry (DDT-IMS) technology that enables the swift detection of both positive and negative ions from four toxic metabolites of 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT). This technology enables the detection of residual metabolites in the human body, which can suggest crucial health warnings for a diagnosis.
TNT is a commonly used explosive chemical that presents significant health and environmental concerns. Given its extensive production, substantial amounts of TNT have been detected in the environment due to its migration and biodegradation in soil, water and sediment by numerous fungi and bacteria. This biodegradation results in the production of hazardous metabolites such as 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2-ADNT), 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4-ADNT), 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene (2,4-DANT), and 2,6-diamino-4-nitrotoluene (2,6-DANT). These metabolites present potential health hazards including aplastic anemia, cataracts, liver cancer and toxic hepatitis, making their detection essential, particularly for workers who produce TNT.
A research team led by Professor Huang Chaoqun from the Hefei lnstitutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (Hefei, China) described their research results for the rapid detection of these four TNT metabolites in their article published in the journal, Talanta. Their study detailed their self-developed DDT-IMS technology, which employs dual-mode detection by measuring the ion mobilities of the metabolites with two different drift tubes using negative or positive detection modes. They also measured the influence of drift tube temperature on detection outcomes, in addition to assessing the instrument’s response times in both detection modes.
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Through application of this technology to urine samples, the researchers showcased the feasibility and effectiveness of DDT-IMS for identifying TNT metabolites in complex biological matrices. The technology not only provides a highly sensitive and practical method for detecting TNT metabolites, but also enhances the ability to assess environmental and biological risks associated with TNT exposure.
“Our finding indicated that the developed DDT-IMS detection technology has significant potential in assessing the environmental and biological risks of TNT,” commented Professor Huang Chaoqun.
