Journal Published Online: 17 December 2003
Volume 49, Issue 1

The Extraction and Infrared Identification of -Hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB) from Aqueous Solutions

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The chemical analysis of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in most forensic laboratories is complicated by the highly polar nature of the GHB molecule, which makes it unsuitable for direct analysis by gas chromatography (GC). Consequently, a popular analytical approach is to convert GHB into the corresponding lactone or a derivative compound that is then identified by mass spectrometry employed in conjunction with GC (GC/MS). An alternative approach is presented here where GHB may be isolated as a free acid specie from complex aqueous solutions employing a liquid-liquid extraction technique. This approach can yield a relatively pure residue of GHB that presents an infrared transmission spectrum that is sufficiently distinct for identification purposes. Infrared spectroscopy (IR) is a very popular technique that is available to most crime laboratories. The liquid-liquid extraction behavior of GHB is examined in detail and the uniqueness of the infrared spectrum is discussed.

Author Information

Chappell, JS
Drug Enforcement Administration, Western Laboratory, San Francisco, CA
Meyn, AW
Drug Enforcement Administration, Western Laboratory, San Francisco, CA
Ngim, KK
Drug Enforcement Administration, Western Laboratory, San Francisco, CA
Pages: 8
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS2003175
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2003175