Microanalysis has many important applications in forensic science because it allows investigators to study very small pieces of evidence and obtain detailed chemical or structural information.
Applications of Microanalysis in Forensic Science:
- Analysis of Paint, Fibers, and Hair
- Helps identify the source or type of a sample.
- Example: Comparing fibers from a suspect’s clothing to fibers found at a crime scene.
- Glass and Soil Analysis
- Detects composition and trace elements in tiny glass shards or soil particles.
- Can link a suspect to a location or object.
- Drug Identification
- Determines the chemical composition of tiny drug samples.
- Techniques like FTIR, UV-Vis, and mass spectrometry are commonly used.
- Gunshot Residue (GSR) Detection
- Analyzes microscopic residues left on hands, clothing, or surfaces after a firearm is discharged.
- SEM-EDS is often used to identify metallic particles from primers.
- Document Examination
- Investigates ink, paper, or toner at a microscopic level to detect forgery or alterations.
- Trace Evidence Analysis
- Microanalysis can study tiny fragments of glass, metal, paint, or soil to match evidence to a source.
- Explosives and Chemical Residue Detection
- Identifies trace chemicals from explosives or toxic substances.
In short:
Microanalysis in forensic science allows investigators to study very small pieces of evidence, identify their composition, and link them to suspects, objects, or crime scenes, which is crucial for solving crimes.