This module broadens the student's basic knowledge of forensic science gained at the B.Sc. (Ordinary) level. The aim is to demonstrate how this knowledge can be applied to various crime scene scenarios and to the analysis of crime scene evidence. Students are expected to gain a broad understanding of the principles of the forensic analytical approach to the identification, collection, preservation and analysis of crime scene evidence. They will also be expected to differentiate the variety of samples that may be encountered and to identify the composition of these samples using advanced spectroscopic techniques.
Crime Analysis, Procedures, Management & Mapping
Review of crime scene search patterns; evidence recognition; crime scene management; data classification and data recording; chain of custody; known reference standards; databases
Chemical Evidence
Extraction techniques; firearms residue and patterns; fire scene evidence; explosives and security; new technologies; nanomaterials in forensic determinations
Impression Evidence
New techniques for the collection of impression evidence (fingerprints, bullet comparisons, tool marks)including vacuum metal deposition; case studies; bloodstain patterns; corrosion of evidence
Document Evidence
Fraudulent document identification, analysis and chemical enhancement techniques; composition and manufacture of inks and oils.
Latent Invisible Trace Evidence
Strategies for detection; latent bloodstain detection and chemical enhancement methods; Near IR and fingerprint detection; Pepper spray detection - fluorescence and chemical derivatisation methods; characterisation of surface modified fibres
Flourescence Spectroscopy
Theory; applications; energy levels; pH & inner filter effects; quenching
Atomic absorption and emission spectroscopy
Instrumentation review; principles of technique; interferences; graphite furnace AA; quantitative analysis. Plasma Emission Spectroscopy, theory and Instrumentation; Inductively Couple Plasma.
Thermoanalytical Techniques
Thermogravimetric analysis; differential scanning calorimetry; differential thermal analysis; Combustion chemistry; Burning rates of materials; chemistry of combustibles, explosives and accelerants
lecture-based instruction
Individual learning
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 70 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |