This module aims to provide the students with the knowledge and resources to identify and characterize trace evidence in the form of hair, fibres, paint, glass and FAR (Fire Arms Residue) using optical and electron microscopy.
Trace Evidence Forms
Classification of trace evidence (hair and fibres; paints and inks; glass, FAR (Fire Arms Residue)). Identification of material type: metal, polymer, ceramics, glass or composite material. General properties of metals, polymers, ceramics, glass and composites.
Trace Evidence Properties
Origin, composition, additives, degradation characteristics, form/morphology, persistence/shedability.
Optical Microscopy
Stereo-microscope, compound microscope, polarising light microscope, fluorescent microscope: construction, operation,imaging technique, application of technique and limitations.
Electron Microscopy
Principle of scanning electron microscopy; SE (Secondary Electron) and BS (Back-Scattered)imaging. Application in analysis of different forms of trace evidence.
SEM/EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy combined with Energy Dispersive X-Rays
Principle of elemental analysis in EDX. The combination of BS imaging and EDX analysis for the examination of FAR.
Strategy for Analysis
The logical sequence of steps in the analysis of each of the forms of trace evidence and the information dervied from each step.
GRIM (Glass Refractive Index Measurement)
Explanation of the Becke line test.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |
| Formal Examination | 70 |