The mass spectrum of cocaine
Smith, RM
Quality assurance coordinator, Wisconsin Department of Justice, Madison,Crime Laboratory, 4706 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53705.


Abstract
The current literature allows an analysis of the electron impact mass spectral fragmentations of cocaine (I). Using published high-resolution mass measurements as a reference, the mass spectra of several cocaine derivatives were examined—specifically those having individual functional group modifications at the nitrogen, alkyl ester group, aromatic ring and two-carbon bridge. Previously proposed major fragmentation pathways are supported by these data, and structures and mechanisms for lesser fragmentations are proposed. The relative intensities of the m/z 152 ions in the mass spectra of the cocaine diasteromers are rationalized based on these proposals.

Keywords:
chemistry, cocaine, forensic science, mass spectrometry, substance abuse

Paper ID: JFS423970475

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Author Smith RM Title The mass spectrum of cocaine Symposium , Committee on