X-ray Scattering Evaluation of Ultrastructural Changes in Human Dental Tissues with Thermal Treatment

• NCJ Number: 246861
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 59 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2014 Pages: 769-774
• Author(s): Michael A. Sandholzer M.Sc.; Tan Sui B.Sc.; Alexander M. Korsunsky Ph.D.; Anthony D. Walmsley; Philip J. Lumley; Gabriel Landini
• Date Published: May 2014
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Micro- and ultrastructural analysis of burned skeletal remains is crucial for obtaining a reliable estimation of cremation temperature.

Abstract

Micro- and ultrastructural analysis of burned skeletal remains is crucial for obtaining a reliable estimation of cremation temperature. Earlier studies mainly focused on heat-induced changes in bone tissue, while this study extends this research to human dental tissues using a novel quantitative analytical approach. Twelve tooth sections were burned at 400-900 degrees C 30-min exposure, increments of 100 degrees C. Subsequent combined small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering SAXS/WAXS experiments were performed at the Diamond Light Source synchrotron facility, where 28 scattering patterns were collected within each tooth section. In comparison with the control sample, an increase in mean crystal thickness was found in burned dentine 2.8-fold and enamel 1.4-fold, however at a smaller rate than reported earlier for bone tissue 5-10.7-fold. The results provide a structural reference for traditional X-ray scattering methods and emphasize the need to investigate bone and dental tissues separately to obtain a reliable estimation of cremation temperature. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.