Mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical technique used in forensic science to identify and measure chemical substances with great accuracy. It helps forensic experts analyze very small amounts of materials found at crime scenes.
1. Drug Identification
Mass spectrometry helps detect and identify illegal drugs, prescription medicines, and toxic substances in samples like blood, urine, or hair. It provides information about the molecular structure of the substance and can detect even very small traces.
2. Toxicology and Poison Detection
In cases of suspected poisoning or overdose, this technique is used to find and measure poisons, alcohol, or drugs in body fluids or tissues. It helps determine whether the levels found were harmful or fatal.
3. Explosives and Gunshot Residue Analysis
Mass spectrometry is used to detect chemical residues from explosives or firearms. It can identify compounds such as those found in gunpowder or explosive materials, helping link a suspect to the use of a weapon or bomb.
4. Trace Evidence Analysis
It helps analyze very small chemical traces like paint, fibers, or ink. Each substance gives a unique chemical pattern, allowing investigators to compare and match samples to a source.
5. Biological Sample Analysis
Although mass spectrometry does not identify DNA directly, it is used to study proteins and peptides in biological materials such as blood, saliva, or semen. This helps confirm the type of biological material found at a crime scene.
6. Identification of Unknown Substances
When an unknown powder, liquid, or residue is found, mass spectrometry reveals its chemical makeup. It helps determine whether the material is a drug, poison, explosive, or something harmless.
7. Postmortem Analysis
In autopsy cases, it helps detect drugs, alcohol, or toxic chemicals in tissues and organs. This information can help determine the cause of death or whether poisoning or overdose occurred.
8. Evidence Verification
Mass spectrometry provides highly reliable and repeatable results, making its findings strong and acceptable in court. Each substance produces a unique mass spectrum that acts as solid scientific evidence.
Common Techniques Used
- Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS): For testing volatile substances such as drugs or explosives.
- Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS): For testing biological samples and complex mixtures.
- Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectrometry (ICP–MS): For detecting metals or trace elements such as gunshot residues.