NCJ Number
132277
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 30 Issue: 5 Dated: (September/October 1990) Pages: 285-292
Date Published
1990
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A 2-stage approach to identifying single propellant particles, which may be recovered during laboratory work from suspects' or victims' clothing, was investigated.
Abstract
This identification procedure, which involved the techniques of infrared microspectrophotometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, can detect all the main propellant constituents including nitrocellulose. The described technique is being applied regularly and has been particularly useful in cases involving close range shootings. Care must be taken, however, when comparing fired and unfired propellant and when compiling statistical information from results produced by fired particles. 6 figures and 10 references (Author abstract modified)