NCJ Number
142982
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 38 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1993) Pages: 571-584
Date Published
1993
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Using the tape-lift method, experiments were carried out to sample gunshot residue (GSR) particles from hair using double-sided adhesive tape.
Abstract
Under laboratory conditions, GSRs were lifted from hair samples up to 24 hours after the shooting, if the hair had not been washed. There were no significant differences found between the tape-lift method and the more complex swabbing- and-comb method using a comb and solvent-damped cloth. The tape-lift method required 200 to 300 dabbings of the hair to achieve maximum collection efficiency. Used in casework in Israel for about 18 months, this method has successfully found GSRs in hair samples but not in samples from hands. However, further studies of this method showed that 50 to 100 dabbings can be used to achieve maximum collection efficiency from hands. No substantial danger of skin debris concealing GSRs was noted. 6 figures, 6 tables, and 24 references