Surface Analysis Techniques in Forensic Science

Successes, Challenges, and Opportunities for Operational Deployment

Review (2022)

Authors

Melanie J. Bailey University of Surrey
M. de Puit Netherlands Forensic Institute - NFI, ChemE/Advanced Soft Matter - AS
Francesco Saverio Romolo University of Bergamo
Research Group
ChemE/Advanced Soft Matter (AS) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2022 Melanie J. Bailey, M. de Puit, Francesco Saverio Romolo
DOI
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https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-anchem-061020-124221
Surface analysis Fingerprints Imaging mass spectrometry Forensic science Spectroscopic imaging Trace evidence
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Published Date

2022

Language

English

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Faculty

Applied Sciences

Department

ChemE/Chemical Engineering

Research Group

ChemE/Advanced Soft Matter

Abstract

Surface analysis techniques have rapidly evolved in the last decade. Some of these are already routinely used in forensics, such as for the detection of gunshot residue or for glass analysis. Some surface analysis approaches are attractive for their portability to the crime scene. Others can be very helpful in forensic laboratories owing to their high spatial resolution, analyte coverage, speed, and specificity. Despite this, many proposed applications of the techniques have not yet led to operational deployment. Here, we explore the application of these techniques to the most important traces commonly found in forensic casework. We highlight where there is potential to add value and outline the progress that is needed to achieve operational deployment. We consider within the scope of this review surface mass spectrometry, surface spectroscopy, and surface X-ray spectrometry. We show how these tools show great promise for the analysis of fingerprints, hair, drugs, explosives, and microtraces.