Analysis of 3-Nitro-1,2,4-Triazole-5-One (NTO) in Explosive Mixtures by capillary electrophoresis

Recently a new explosive, 3-Nitro-1,2,4-triazole-5-one (NTO) has attracted interest as possible replacements for or inclusion in various military propellants and explosives. Analysis of NTO compounds as well as 14 other nitramine and nitroaromatic explosives could be accomplished by capillary electrophoresis using a technique known as MECC, micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography. A borate/boric acid buffer with sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) was used in conjunction with direct UV detection at 185 nm.