ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 8

The Specificity of the Duquenois Color Test for Marihuana and Hashish
Pitt, CG
Research Triangle Institute, North Carolina

Hsia, RS
Research Triangle Institute, North Carolina

Hendron, RW
Research Triangle Institute, North Carolina

(Received 15 February 1972; accepted 5 May 1972)

Abstract

The Duquenois color test [1,2], coupled when possible with botanical examination [3], is regarded as one of the most reliable indications of the trace presence of cannabinoids, the physiologically active constituents of marihuana and hashish [4]. Consequently, this color test is used widely in forensic laboratories in the United States. Analysis of extracts from a substantial number of plant families has failed as yet to discover any exception to the specificity of the test [3,5]. However, it is clear that an understanding of the chemical basis of the test would allow a better appreciation of the molecular features which are necessary for a positive color test, and an increased confidence in its specificity. With this end in mind, we have studied the minimum structural features of the cannabinoid skeleton which are necessary for a positive test.

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Paper ID: JFS10160J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS10160J
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