Detection Kits and Tests for PETN

Presumptive Screening for PETN Residues and Samples

Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) is a nitrate-ester high explosive used in detonating cord, boosters and some plastic-explosive formulations. ChemSee provides direct-visual screening formats for controlled surfaces, portable field work and repeated sample programs.

Discuss PETN ScreeningView All Targets

PETN reference material

Screening Context

PETN-class detection is useful when a trained team has a properly collected residue or an authorized material sample. Product choice depends on whether the need is surface mapping, portable multi-target screening, aviation readiness or higher sample volume.

  • Target class: nitrate-ester explosive
  • Readout: visible color response
  • Use: presumptive field screening
  • Escalation: follow the applicable SOP and confirm when required

SprayView™

Controlled direct screening of larger surfaces and trace residues.

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Nitro-Pen / EXPKIT

Individual or multi-target portable screening of collected residues and material samples.

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Nitro-Screen / IFED

Higher-volume screening or a compact aviation-oriented configuration.

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Representative PETN surface-residue response using SprayView

Representative PETN simulant response using Nitro-Pen

Interpret Example Responses Carefully

Archived images demonstrate the type of visual response that may occur. Color and intensity can vary with matrix, loading, lighting, detector condition and procedure; a demonstration does not establish performance for every real-world sample.

Presumptive screening only: ChemSee detectors support trained, authorized personnel after a sample is determined safe to collect under an approved procedure. Never touch, move, open or sample a suspicious item merely to perform a test. Follow local law-enforcement, bomb-squad or EOD direction.

For regulatory context on plastic explosives and detection agents, see the ATF Plastic Explosives Reminder.

Choose a PETN Screening Format

Share the sample type, operating environment and expected volume for a product recommendation.

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