A NEW APPROACH TO FORENSIC ANALYSIS WITH INFRARED MICROSCOPY - INTERNAL-REFLECTION SPECTROSCOPY

A preliminary study has been conducted on the application of microscopical infrared internal reflection spectroscopy for the analysis of forensic evidence. Internal reflection spectra have been obtained from single fibers, hairs, paint chips, vehicle rubber bumpers, photocopy toners, carbon copies, writing ink on paper, lipstick on tissue and black electrical tapes. The technique is convenient, non-destructive and often permits spectra of smears to be obtained in situ. The technique shows great potential for analysis and comparison of forensic evidence.