Gun Residue Analysis Using Paper Microfluidics
- Author:
- Paredes-Rodriguez, Chastity
- Published:
- [University Park, Pennsylvania] : Pennsylvania State University, 2016.
- Physical Description:
- 1 electronic document
- Additional Creators:
- Karlinsey, James and Schreyer Honors College
Access Online
- honors.libraries.psu.edu , Connect to this object online.
- Restrictions on Access:
- Open Access.
- Summary:
- At borders, security checkpoints, and crime scenes, officials need an efficient test for explosive, gunpowder, and gunshot residues. This work describes the development and evaluation of a microfluidic paper-based analytical device ([mu]PAD) that is intended to be used for the rapid detection of aromatic compounds present in gunpowder and gunshot residue. The [mu]PAD offers benefits of rapid prototyping, reduced cost, disposability, and ease of transport, which is important for an application that is designed for use in the field. Similar work has been reported in the literature for a [mu]PAD-based colorimetric assay that detects aromatics from explosives. The [mu]PAD presented here was designed using AutoCAD software and patterned onto chromatography paper of various grades with a dedicated printer using wax-based ink to define fluidic flow paths. A panel of common residues was evaluated on paper in order to better understand experimental limitations, prior to the acquisition of real samples from local authorities (e.g., campus police) that were able to provide substrate containing residue. A colorimetric response on paper was thoroughly explored for each residue. The latter analysis could prove beneficial for follow-up analysis after an initial colorimetric screening "in the field."
- Other Subject(s):
- Genre(s):
- Dissertation Note:
- B.S. Pennsylvania State University, Berks/Lehigh, 2016.
- Technical Details:
- The full text of the dissertation is available as an Adobe Acrobat .pdf file ; Adobe Acrobat Reader required to view the file.
View MARC record | catkey: 17529306