Library of Microcrystalline Tests of Psychoactive Substances

• NCJ Number: 310493
• Author(s): Matthew Quinn; Michael Cain Jr.; Monica Joshi
• Date Published: June 2017
• Grant Number(s): 2014-R2-CX-K008
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Reference Material

Annotation

This publication provides basic information about the Library of Microcrystalline Tests of Psychoactive Substances.

Abstract

This brief describes the Library of Microcrystalline Tests of Psychoactive Substances, which compiles images of microcrystals and an infrared spectrum for the most characteristic microcrystal of that substance. The purpose of the library is to serve as a reference to analysts performing microcrystalline tests. The 30 substances included in the library represent the ever-evolving structural classes of cathinones, phenethylamines, piperazines, aminoindanes, and opioids. The section for each substance includes a brief introduction of the substance, descriptions and photomicrographs of microcrystals observed with different test reagents, and infrared spectra of one or more microcrystal tests. The infrared spectra demonstrate that the microcrystal observed with a specific reagent is indeed representative of the structure of the substance being studied. The microcrystal characteristics combined with the infrared spectrum give both a SWGDRUG category A and category B test for that substance. The microcrystalline tests that performed reliably with a practical crystal formation time are reported in the library. Microcrystalline tests are quick tests to determine the presence of target substances in a given liquid or solid. A microcrystalline test is a precipitation reaction between a drug and a reagent, forming an insoluble drug-reagent complex unique to that specific test. These tests are quick, requiring minimal sample preparation and can be non-destructive; therefore, they can be used as preliminary and confirmatory tests with expertise. Microcrystalline tests are one of the oldest analytical chemistry practices and their use for classic drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines is well-documented. This research is an effort to increase understanding and promote use of microcrystalline tests for novel psychoactive substances.