NCJ Number
133237
Journal
Journal of the Forensic Science Society Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: (July-September 1991) Pages: 365-371
Date Published
1991
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The combination of diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and pyrolysis gas chromatography (PyGC) techniques provide a simple and effective method of analyzing traces of polymer materials, including toners and adhesives, on questioned documents.
Abstract
A quantity of approximately one centimeter of a printed line is a sufficient sample for this analysis, thus avoiding extensive damage to the document. Unlike other techniques which require the physical separation of the sample from the paper support, this process includes an extraction step that separates the material being analyzed from the paper fibers. A high level of discrimination has been achieved using this combined technique on photocopying toners and adhesives; work continues to evaluate the effectiveness of the technique in analyzing adhesive tapes, correction fluids, and inks. 4 figures and 7 notes (Author abstract modified)