Pilot study on FT-IR and GC analysis of inhalant substances (thinners and glues) for forensic purpose

Abstract

Abuse of chemicals classified as inhalants, particularly volatile, for producing effects resembling those of sedatives and other CNS depressants has repeatedly been recorded from numerous locations across the world. This problem is gaining increased attention every day, just like the abuse of other potent drugs. In general, these substances, including paint thinner, glues, etc., do not carry any legal restrictions; therefore, they pose a noxious attraction for teenagers. Keeping in view the danger of such substances, the present research work was initiated in order to generate a Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FT-IR) and gas chromatography (GC) database of a few frequently available inhalant type substances. Instrumental methods used in this study are common and versatile from a forensic analysis point of view. The use of FT-IR and GC has also clarified the comparative application obligation when samples are pure. The results of this study are novel and futuristically useful in forensic scientific investigation.