DETERMINATION OF METHAMPHETAMINE AND ITS RELATED-COMPOUNDS USING FOURIER-TRANSFORM RAMAN-SPECTROSCOPY

Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman) is investigated as a s imple and rapid method for the determination of the abused drug metham phetamine and its related compounds, Compounds can be reliably identif ied by using measurements made nondestructively and without the need f or any sample preparation in around 1 min, The Raman spectrum of metha mphetamine hydrochloride (MA) shows clear differences in spectra from a range of its related compounds such as amphetamine sulfate and ephed rine hydrochloride, These differences are adequate for spectral differ entiation of the compounds, With the use of the FT-Raman technique, MA is also reliably identifiable to a detection limit of 1% (w/w) dilute d in sodium chloride or water, FT-Raman spectra of MA were recorded th rough plastic packaging (polyethylene or polypropylene bags) typical o f that used either by criminals for transportation or by law enforceme nt for containing and sealing evidence, Measurements could be made dir ectly without removing the drug from the bag; excellent-quality spectr a could be obtained with very little perturbation by the plastic bag.