The conference Mass Spectrometry in Fire & Explosion Investigation is a specialized meeting dedicated to the application of mass spectrometry in forensic science, with a particular focus on fire debris analysis and explosion investigations. The event aims to provide a platform for scientists, forensic experts, and industry professionals to discuss the latest advancements in analytical techniques, instrumentation, and methodologies used to identify and characterize ignitable liquids, explosive residues, and combustion by-products. It also promotes collaboration between academic research, forensic laboratories, law enforcement agencies, and industrial partners, fostering innovation and the exchange of knowledge in this critical field of investigation.

This year’s edition will cover a wide range of topics, including:

Fire Debris Analysis: Advanced mass spectrometry techniques for the detection and identification of ignitable liquid residues in complex fire debris matrices; sample preparation strategies; interpretation challenges; and chemometric approaches for data analysis.
Explosives Characterization: Identification and profiling of organic and inorganic explosive materials; post-blast residue analysis; degradation pathways; and emerging threats involving homemade or improvised explosives.
Instrumentation & Method Development: Innovations in GC-MS, LC-MS, and high-resolution mass spectrometry applied to forensic investigations; portable and field-deployable systems; sensitivity enhancement; and validation of analytical protocols.
Forensic Applications & Case Studies: Real-world applications of mass spectrometry in fire and explosion casework; integration with other forensic techniques; interpretation of evidential data; and courtroom presentation of analytical results.
Environmental & Safety Aspects: Analysis of toxic combustion products and environmental contaminants resulting from fires and explosions; risk assessment; and monitoring of hazardous residues.
Data Analysis & Chemometrics: Advanced statistical and computational tools for the interpretation of complex mass spectrometry datasets; pattern recognition; database development; and automation in forensic workflows.
Emerging Technologies: Novel approaches including ambient ionization techniques, imaging mass spectrometry, and AI-driven data interpretation applied to forensic fire and explosion analysis.