Forensic Analysis of Unknown Materials: a different vision of Questioned Documents
Abstract
One of the biggest challenges in forensic analysis is the correct identification of unknown materials found in a crime scene or crime scene related.
Forensic document analysis comprises the characterization, identification and differentiation of various materials such as inks, paper, glues, coatings, laminates, waxes, among others for which it is necessary to use advanced analytical methodologies.
In the present study, some unknown materials were correctly identified and characterized using techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM / EDX) and High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), as well as the analysis of morphology and other physical and chemical characteristics inherent to the suspicious material under study.
Based on some case studies, the significant contribution of this kind of identification to the criminal investigation will be demonstrated.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
The copyright of individual articles are with the author(s) and CEPOL. Reproduction without alterations is authorised for non-commercial purposes, provided the source is acknowledged.