The instrument of choice for identifying low-level amounts of CW agents and other volatile, highly toxic substances is gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This analytical tool has the sensitivity required for performing such low-level analyses, and the ability to provide irrefutable confirmation of the identity of a volatile or semi-volatile substance, including CW agents. However, commercially available GC-MS instruments that are rugged enough to withstand the extreme conditions of outdoor environments and are able to provide results in a timely manner cannot also provide analytical results of laboratory quality. However, emerging technological improvements in gas chromatography (i.e. "Fast" GC) have greatly reduced analysis time from tens of minutes to 1 or 2 minutes. These improvements include redesign of the oven heaters and the vacuum system. By utilizing both of these new technologies in combination with reliable, commercially available mass spectrometers, it is now possible to construct a portable GC-MS capable of being transported by one person, performing analyses in a matter of minutes, and providing reliable analytical results of laboratory quality. Constellation Technology Corporation (Constellation) proposes the incorporation of these technologies into an already existing portable GC-MS produced and sold exclusively by Constellation as a commercial instrument (CT-1128 Portable GC-MS). Benefits The existing Constellation field-portable CT-1128 GC-MS unit weighs 75 pounds and provides reliable data of laboratory quality in approximately 17 minutes. The unit is fully capable of detecting a wide variety of volatile and semi-volatile compounds including, but not limited to, CW agents and their surrogates, controlled substances (i.e. illicit drugs), explosives, and industry-related solvents and chemicals. In addition, the CT-1128 GC-MS is fully compatible with SPME syringes. This research will reduce the weight by 25% and the analysis time by 80%. This will make the field portable GC-MS truly useful for performing on-site analyses for various law enforcement agencies, National Guard, first responders, and the military. Keywords GC-MS, CW, portable, analysis, SPME
