This article summarizes the recent literature that describes the use of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) in the field of forensic examinations, with selected applications that highlight the forensic analyses of a variety of matrices and analytes of interest, as well as the advantages, limitations, and future trends in this field.
A critical evaluation of the parameters of forensic interest is discussed in detail, including the analytical performance of the technique, discrimination potential (when comparing samples), the impact of sample homogeneity/heterogeneity at the microscale, reproducibility, quality control, sampling strategies, sampling size requirements, availability of matrix-matched standards, data analysis, and the interpretation of results. Practical considerations - such as the selection of laser wavelength and carrier gas, the use of internal standardization, and quantification strategies - are discussed, along with the unique requirements of quality control, method validation, and acceptance in court. (publisher abstract modified)