Tracking the distribution of "ecstasy" tablets by Raman composition profiling: a large scale feasibility study

摘要: Here we report the results of largest study yet carried out on composition profiling seized “ecstasy” tablets by Raman spectroscopy. Approximately 1500 from different seizures in N. Ireland were analysed and even though practically all contained MDMA as active constituent, there very significant differences their spectra, which due to variations both nature concentration excipients used and/or degree hydration MDMA. The ratios peak heights prominent drug bands at 810 cm−1 716 cm−1 (which vary with state drug), band against clearly discernible excipient spectrum measured for samples. It was found that sufficient variation general sample population make any matches between batches taken significant, rather than result random chance. Despite large number examined this study, only two examples indistinguishable sets one these had been times. Finally, fact are many (particularly single seizures) each set sufficiently small they appear arise within a standard manufacturing method implies that, more extensive data, it may be possible recognize “signature” prepared major manufacturers.