ANALYSIS OF DRUG-INFUSED PAPERS BY ASAP-MS

Importance of the Topic

Rapid identification of illicit substances infused into paper is crucial for maintaining security in institutions where novel psychoactive substances pose significant risks. Traditional analytical methods often require time-consuming chromatographic separation. The RADIAN ASAP Mass Detector offers a fast, direct screening approach, supporting efforts to reduce drug-related incidents and violence in secure environments.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This study aimed to evaluate an Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe Mass Spectrometry system (ASAP-MS) equipped with RADIAN ASAP and LiveID software as a simple yet rapid screening tool for detecting drugs in paper samples confiscated within secure institutions.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Paper samples (2×2 cm) suspected of containing drugs were cut into 1×1 cm sections and sonicated in 500 µL methanol for five minutes.
• Extracts were analyzed in triplicate using RADIAN ASAP coupled to a mass spectrometer, applying four cone voltages (15, 25, 35, 50 V) to generate diagnostic fragment ions.
• LiveID software matched spectra against a library of 70 certified reference materials; a match score ≥850/1000 indicated positive identification.
• For comparison, extracts were also analyzed by UPLC I-Class chromatography coupled to a Xevo G2-XS QTof mass spectrometer using an established ESI+ screening method.

Main Results and Discussion

• Out of 20 suspect papers, 18 samples tested positive for analytes such as MDMB-CHMICA and 5F-AKB48, with match scores ranging from 881 to 989.
• Good agreement was observed between ASAP-MS and QTof analyses; minor discrepancies were attributed to non-uniform drug distribution.
• Semi-quantitative assessment using calibration curves and an internal standard (molsidomine) estimated drug loadings: MDMB-CHMICA at 0.05–3.08 mg/cm² and 5F-AKB48 at 1.34–3.04 mg/cm².

Benefits and Practical Applications

• The direct-MS approach removes the need for chromatographic separation, delivering results in under two minutes per sample.
• The simple extraction and analysis workflow is suitable for high-throughput screening in forensic and security laboratories.
• Semi-quantitative capability provides preliminary concentration estimates to guide confirmatory testing.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

• Expansion of spectral libraries to include emerging novel psychoactive substances and other illicit compounds.
• Development of portable ASAP-MS platforms for on-site screening in correctional facilities.
• Automation of sample handling to enhance throughput and reproducibility.
• Integration with machine learning algorithms for improved spectral matching and identification performance.

Conclusion

The RADIAN ASAP ASAP-MS method demonstrates rapid, reliable, and user-friendly screening for drug-infused paper matrices. Its speed and operational simplicity make it a valuable tool for forensic and security applications aimed at reducing illicit drug access in controlled environments.

References

1. Centre for Social Justice. Drugs in Prison. London: Centre for Social Justice; 2015.
2. Ford LT, Berg JD. Analytical evidence to show letters impregnated with novel psychoactive substances are a means of getting drugs to inmates within the UK prison service. Ann Clin Biochem. 2018;55(6):673-678.
3. Norman C, et al. Detection and quantitation of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in infused papers from prisons in a constantly evolving illicit market. Drug Test Anal. 2020;1-17.
4. Wood M. RADIAN ASAP with LiveID-Fast, Specific and Easy Drug Screening. Waters Application Brief 720007125EN.
5. Wood M. The Utility of MSE for Toxicological Screening. Waters Application Brief 720005198EN.