Note: In May 2016 the consumables provided in the Max Bromson Kit were doubled, so that more than one sample could be tested.
The results of these tests on a sample of Nembutal powder (or liquid) will give a reliable indication as to whether the sample has undergone significant deterioration, or has been contaminated or adulterated.
The 3 Tests are:
a) The Acid Conversion Test (ACT) b) The Melting Point Test (MPT) c) Dilution Purity Testing (DPT)
a) The Acid Conversion Test (ACT)
Nembutal (sodium pentobarbital) is in the form of a soluble salt. When dissolved in water the salt forms a clear alkaline liquid (with pH ~10). This explains the bitter taste.
Conversion into the insoluble crystalline form can be achieved by acidifying the solution and driving the pH down, so that an insoluble precipitate is formed.
If the original salt sample is 100% pure sodium pentobarbital, the weight of the precipitate formed should be 90% of the original (the ratio of the molecular weights of both substances). In other words if one dissolve half a gram (500mg) of 100% pure Nembutal powder, acidifies, separates, dries and weighs the precipitate, one would expect a weight of 450mg.
