Identifying Unknown Chemicals in the Field
Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry is changing field response with faster, more accurate results.
Civil Support Teams (CSTs), first responders, and hazmat professionals are facing chemical threats out in the field more often than ever before. And the stakes have never been higher. Under pressure to respond, detect, and identify as quickly as possible, teams must make assessments and decisions with confidence.
Chemical threats come in various forms: liquid, vapor, and solid. Some are complex, while others are straightforward; some are invisible, while others are visibly dangerous. But when it comes to civilian and team safety, there is no room for delays or error in detecting and identifying.
Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is revolutionizing hazmat response by enabling faster, more accurate field-ready chemical identification. Rated the highest standard in identification technology, GC/MS features trace-level sensitivity and produces lab-quality results. This technology is critical in situations where real-time data is needed so decisions can be made with clarity, speed, and ease.
Identifying Unknowns in the Field
Hazmat scenarios can be unpredictable and dangerous; teams can be faced with a chemical, biological, radiological, or counterdrug threats—all of which can potentially harm civilians, teams, and the environment.
Baseline detection technology has limitations. It requires reliance on presumptive tests or presents delays in lab confirmation. Inaccurate identification can result in unnecessary exposure, ineffective mitigation, and delayed evacuation.
To understand how field detection has evolved, it helps to understand the power of GC/MS. This powerful technology can separate, identify, and analyze chemical compounds. It has the ability to separate chemicals in complex mixtures and reveal exactly what they they’re made of. Here’s how it works:
- Gas chromatography (GC) separates a chemical mixture into individual components.
- Mass spectrometry (MS) then identifies each of those components based on their molecular structure.
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Together, GC/MS provide precise, reliable identification of unknown chemicals, even in complex or contaminated samples. That’s why it’s known as the “gold standard” in chemical analysis, used in forensic labs, environmental testing, and pharmaceutical development.
GC/MS has helped to change field response in an impactful way. What used to require a full lab and team of specialists can now be done on-site with no chemistry degree required. GC/MS is like having a portable benchtop lab that is capable of identifying chemicals that are vapors, solids, or liquids with speed, ease, precision. That means samples no longer need to transported to another location for analysis.
Built for Response Teams
HAPSITE® CDT is a compact, highly deployable system built on proven GC/MS technology and is designed specifically for field use by CSTs, first responders, and hazmat teams. It delivers actionable, court-admissible results in minutes and can detect narcotics, toxic industrial chemicals, fourth generation agents, and chemical warfare agents in vapors, liquids, or solids. Its minimal training requirement, trace-level sensitivity, and adaptability for tactical operations have made it a key enabler for teams around the world.
Another key differentiator in the INFICON system is its portability. Many chemical identification products on the market today are bulky and heavy. When suited in personal protective equipment, teams don’t need equipment that weighs them down even more. HAPSITE CDT has a portable and light handheld unit and can work comfortably in gloves.
The remote sample collector can instantly collect and store vapor samples on a reusable cartridge; there is nothing heavy to carry. When samples are collected, the cartridge can be removed and connected to the base unit for a complete lab analysis in minutes. Cartridges can be used repeatedly, up to hundreds of times.
Furthermore, the system interface was designed to require minimal training, display clear and easy-to-read results, and feature large buttons for simple control. If a threat is present, the screen alerts you.
Chemical Identification to the Next Level
Whether it’s a clan lab, suspicious container, or unidentified substance, first responders must make fast and easy assessments and decisions. When teams need to know whether a powder substance, liquid, or gas is a threat, there is no time to waste.
GC/MS gives teams real-time clarity in high-stakes moments. Faster detection and identification means faster protection—and the sooner teams can move on the next assignment.
