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

The Separation of Lysergide (LSD) from Related Ergot Alkaloids and Its Identification in Forensic Science Casework Samples
David Osselton, M
Higher scientific officer, senior scientific officer, and principal scientific officer, Central Research Establishment, Home Office Forensic Science Service,

Japp, M
Higher scientific officer, senior scientific officer, and principal scientific officer, Central Research Establishment, Home Office Forensic Science Service,

Gill, R
Higher scientific officer, senior scientific officer, and principal scientific officer, Central Research Establishment, Home Office Forensic Science Service,

(Received 31 July 1986; accepted 10 October 1986)

Abstract

The separation of lysergide (LSD) from related ergot alkaloids, and its isomer lysergic acid methylpropylamide (LAMPA), has been investigated using the techniques of capillary gas chromatography and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Capillary gas chromatography using fused silica nonpolar bonded phase columns gave good discrimination, and retention indices for several ergot alkaloids have been measured. The applicability of this technique to the analysis of illicit LSD preparations has been demonstrated by preparing extracts from LSD microdot tablets and card and paper squares. The HPLC systems examined in the present study were unable to achieve baseline resolution of LSD and LAMPA.

Keywords:
toxicology, lysergic acid, chromatographic analysis

Paper ID: JFS12404J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12404J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.