The use of thermospray-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry for the verification of chemical warfare agents

SummaryThermospray-liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (TSP-LC-MS) is a relatively new analytical technique which proved to be useful for the verification of chemical warfare agents and their polar degradation products in aqueous solutions. The principles of the technique are described and comparisons are made with other forms of mass spectrometric analysis. A survey is presented of the results obtained so far at the Prins Maurits Laboratory TNO. The analysis of organophosphorus nerve agents and their hydrolysis products (organophosphorus acids) in various types of water is described. Special attention is paid to the nerve agent VX. Direct analysis of vesicants in water by TSP-LC-MS is limited. However, analysis of their hydrolysis products, as well as related compounds such as adducts of mustard gas with nucleosides and peptides, is possible. Finally, the use of TSP-LC-MS for the analysis of other compounds of chemical warfare interest (toxins) is indicated.