Fluorescent Sensor Detects the Date-Rape Drug
The technical term for the date-rape drug is GHB or Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid. It is a central nervous system depressant that can incapacitate a person. GHB is odorless, colorless, and little salty and is pretty much undetectable when mixed in a drink. It takes effect within 15 to 30 minutes and can last for three to six hours. This is the reason why sexual predators use it. A Chemistry team from the National University of Singapore has developed a fluorescent sensor that detects the presence of GHB. The sensor is highly sensitive and produces a quick response. When the GHB is added to a drink the sensor’s florescent color looses its intensity. The team plans to invent a portable GHB detection kit within a year. This could make a vast difference in the prevention of GHB facilitated sexual assault.
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Source: Forensic Magazine
[Abstract written by Alicia Terrell, ForensIQ Intern, 040314]