Biological agent detection and identification by the Block II Chemical Biological Mass Spectrometer

Abstract

The Block II Chemical Biological Mass Spectrometer (CBMS) detects and identifies both chemical and biological warfare agents. Biodetection is based upon respirable particle collection by an opposed-jet virtual impactor, liberation of derivatized biomarkers by thermolysis-methylation and their analysis by direct-sampling ion trap mass spectrometry in the full-scan chemical ionization mode. Results from laboratory and field trials demonstrate the capability of the Block II CBMS for biodetection and identification. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.Field Analyt Chem Technol 5: 177–184, 2001