ASTM E2999-17 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Analysis of Organic Compounds in Smokeless Powder by Gas Chromatography‑Mass Spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ASTM E2999‑17). This test method defines procedures for identifying organic constituents of visible smokeless powder grains using GC‑MS and FTIR techniques to support forensic and explosive‑evidence examinations.

Abstract

E2999‑17 provides analytical procedures for the characterization and identification of organic components in smokeless powders. FTIR is emphasized for identifying major polymeric components (for example, nitrocellulose and nitroguanidine), while GC‑MS is used to detect and identify smaller organic molecules such as nitroglycerin, stabilizers, plasticizers, deterrents and other energetics. The method is intended for samples composed of whole or partial visible grains and is used in conjunction with complementary practices for classification and identification.

General information

• Status: Original designation E2999‑17 (2017); later revised and replaced by updated editions (E2999‑25 / E2999‑25a).
• Publication date: 2017 (designation E2999‑17).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 07.140 (Forensic science / explosive analysis).
• Edition / version: E2999‑17 (original). (See later revisions: E2999‑25 / E2999‑25a).
• Number of pages: 5 pages (original E2999‑17 text length).

Scope

This test method describes analysis of organic components in smokeless powders by gas chromatography‑mass spectrometry (GC‑MS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It is suited for samples comprised of visible grains (whole or partial). Analysis of post‑blast debris or gunshot residue when visible grains are not present is beyond the scope of this method. The standard emphasizes safe handling of energetic materials and presumes analyst training and competency.

Key topics and requirements

• Use of FTIR to identify major polymeric components (e.g., nitrocellulose) and certain energetic salts (e.g., nitroguanidine).
• Use of GC‑MS to separate and identify volatile and semi‑volatile organic compounds such as nitroglycerin, stabilizers, plasticizers, energetics and deterrents.
• Sampling limited to visible whole or partial grains of smokeless powder (not intended for indistinguishable residues).
• Recommendations for analyst training, safe handling, and facility controls for working with low explosives and energetic materials.
• Use together with complementary practices (for classification and physical examination) to achieve a complete identification and classification workflow.

Typical use and users

Forensic chemists, explosives analysts, laboratory personnel in law enforcement and government forensic laboratories, and technical staff conducting evidentiary examinations of intact or partially intact smokeless powder grains. Users should have formal training and demonstrated competency in forensic explosive analysis and in the operation and interpretation of GC‑MS and FTIR data.

Related standards

Commonly used in conjunction with ASTM practices and guides addressing smokeless powder identification and forensic explosive analysis, including Practice E2998 (Identification and Classification of Smokeless Powder), Practice E3253, and guidance on training and competency such as Practice E2917. These related documents provide complementary physical classification, sampling, and competency requirements.

Keywords

smokeless powder, GC‑MS, FTIR, nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, nitroguanidine, single‑base, double‑base, triple‑base, forensic explosives, stabilizers, plasticizers, deterrents.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM E2999‑17 is a test method that specifies analytical procedures for identifying organic compounds present in visible grains of smokeless powder using gas chromatography‑mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the analytical identification of organic components in whole or partial smokeless powder grains (e.g., nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, nitroguanidine, stabilizers and plasticizers) and provides guidance on appropriate use of GC‑MS and FTIR for those purposes. It does not cover analysis of post‑blast debris or gunshot residue where grains are not visible.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Forensic laboratory analysts, explosives examiners, and law‑enforcement forensic chemists performing casework or comparative analysis of smokeless powders. Users should be trained in handling energetic materials and in instrumental analysis methods.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The original E2999‑17 text (2017) has been revised in later editions — the E2999 series received updates in 2025 (E2999‑25 and the consolidated/active E2999‑25a). Users performing regulated or operational work should consult the active revision (E2999‑25a) for the most current requirements and editorial changes.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. E2999 is part of a set of ASTM documents addressing smokeless powder and explosive analysis; it is intended to be used together with related practices such as E2998 (identification/classification of smokeless powder) and other E30 committee documents that provide complementary procedures and training guidance.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: smokeless powder, GC‑MS, FTIR, nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, nitroguanidine, forensic explosives, stabilizers, plasticizers, single‑/double‑/triple‑base powders.