ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 10

Comparison Analysis of Illicit Cocaine Samples
Fernando, AR
Postdoctoral fellow, University of Alberta, Edmonton,

Janzen, KE
Forensic toxicologists, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Forensic Laboratory,

Walter, L
Forensic toxicologists, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Forensic Laboratory,

(Received 14 March 1991; accepted 26 July 1991)

Abstract

A rapid method for comparison analysis of illicit cocaine samples has been developed. The raw data are obtained by capillary gas chromatography using a nitrogenphosphorus detector. The area ratios of four alkaloids (tropacocaine, norcocaine, cis-cinnamoylcocaine, and trans-cinnamoylcocaine) to cocaine are calculated for each sample. These ratios are compiled in a computer database which allows easy comparison of samples and makes possible reliable conclusions regarding their commonality of origin.

Keywords:
toxicology, cocaine, chromatographic analysis, computers, capillary gas chromatography

Paper ID: JFS13253J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13253J
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