Rapid and mobile detection of gaseous hazardous substances using GC-IMS for civil security (GC-IMS ZS) - Schnelle und mobile Detektion von gasförmigen Gefahrstoffen mittels GC-IMS für die zivile Sicherheit

This technical report investigates the use of gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) for rapid and mobile detection of gaseous hazardous substances relevant to civil security. The study aimed to determine whether GC-IMS could detect small molecules that current mobile mass spectrometers used by the Analytical Task Force (ATF) cannot identify. Calibration was conducted with relevant compounds, followed by validation in a realistic training scenario simulating an illegal drug laboratory.

Results demonstrate that GC-IMS can detect test compounds such as acetone and 2-butanone on-site within 90 seconds. A limitation identified is reduced sensitivity under high humidity, which could be addressed through chip-based in-line pre-concentration systems, maintaining both sensitivity and rapid analysis. The report provides evidence for the feasibility of fast, mobile chemical detection to support civil protection operations.