SUBJECT FORENSIC SCIENCE

Paper No. and Title PAPER No. 1: General Forensic Science

Module No. and Title MODULE No. 28: Tools and Techniques- I

Module Tag FSC_P1_M28

FORENSIC SCIENCE PAPER No.1: General Forensic Science

MODULE No.28: Tools and Techniques- I
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Learning Outcomes

2. Introduction

3. Questioned Documents Division

4. Physics Division

5. Ballistics and Explosives Division

6. Fingerprints Division

7. Summary

FORENSIC SCIENCE PAPER No.1: General Forensic Science

MODULE No.28: Tools and Techniques- I
 1. Learning Outcomes

After studying this module, you shall be able to know about-

 Some important instruments and techniques used in Forensic Science

 The fundamental principles of some important techniques
 The working of some instruments used in Forensic Science

2. Introduction

Solving mysteries is a challenge lots of individuals would appreciate. If scientific

approach is taken, they are expected to be used by forensic scientists to examine evidence
and to solve crimes. Forensic scientists use the similar instruments and techniques used
by academic scientists performing other kinds of research. It is essential that the forensic
scientist must be aware of the various sources of information and possess understanding
of various tools and techniques that can give deeper understanding of the diverse fields of
the forensic sciences and the problems that are unique to these fields. Forensic
laboratories that offer multidisciplinary facilities are commonly allocated into sections
based upon the types of physical evidence examined. Some of the sections require
specialized equipment, instrumentation, and training of personnel while other sections
may share instrumentation.

3. Questioned Documents Division

3.1 Video Spectral Comparator

Comparison and differentiation of inks by evaluating the infrared reflection and

luminescence qualities inherent to the ink. Most frequently accomplished using a device
known as Video Spectral Comparator (VSC). Video Spectral Comparator is a modern
and advanced equipment used for document examination. Video spectral comparator is a
multipurpose instrument which allows non- destructive examination of document
exhausting multiple instrumental parameters and delivers prompt results with stress-free
use.

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 Video Spectral Comparator

The Video Spectral Comparator is an imaging device which allows an examiner to

analyze inks, visualize hidden security features, and reveal alterations on a document.
VSC works on the basic principles of light. Different light arrangements and filters
arrangements make it more powerful than any other equipment having only light sources
of different wavelengths. This equipment is computer-compatible, data of the case
examination can be stored and retrieved whenever needed. The instrument is equipped
with the specialized lighting tools for examination of documents. The visible, infrared,
ultraviolet, transmitted, coaxial and the oblique lighting conditions may be used alone or
in combination. The instrument allows observing and record the observation of
documents or inks on exposure of light of different wavelengths. This is useful for the
examination and comparison of inks, the examination of security features in documents
such as passports and driving licenses, and the examination of changed or destroyed
records and the inspection of entries which have faded or been washed out. It permits the
analysis and comparison of inks revealing alterations on a document. It makes visible
security features produced on to papers and permits a quick examination of the entire
questioned document.

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 3.2 Electro Static Discharge Apparatus

Electrostatic Detection Apparatus is a special instrument capable of restoring handwritten

impressions in paper that are completely invisible to the bare eye. Electro Static
Discharge Apparatus or popularly known as the ESDA is a device primarily used to
detect indented writing on documents that can also be used to detect footwear
impressions on paper items.

ESDA

It is electrostatic detection apparatus used for decipherment of indented writings. The

surface of the paper causes a different pattern of charging in those areas where there are
indentations. This charge variance is visualized by spreading over an oppositely charged
black toner powder. The document to be examined is positioned on the instrument and
covered with a sheet of transparent film. The film and crammed document are then
exposed electrostatic charge. The charge dissipates rapidly excluding those areas where
indentations are present. The ultimate stage comprises put on black toner to the exterior
of the film which stick to the charged parts making visible the indented writing evident.
The examination of documents for indented handwritten impressions can be important for
many reasons. This technique can yield a record of information from papers that have
been misplaced, destroyed or are no longer available.

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 3.3 Stereo- Zoom Microscope

The stereoscopic microscope is an optical microscope arrangement designed for low

magnification observation of a sample, characteristically using light reflected from the
surface of an object rather than transmitted through it. The instrument uses two separate
optical paths with two objectives and eyepieces to offer slightly different viewing angles
to the right and left eyes. This arrangement produces a three-dimensional visualization of
the sample being examined.

Stereo zoom Microscope

Stereomicroscopy correspondences macro- photography for examining solid samples
with complex surface topography and recording, where a three - dimensional observation
is required for examining the detail. They are therefore widely used in industries for
production, assessment and quality control. Stereo microscope is an important tool in
entomology and forensic ballistics. The stereo microscope should not be confused with a
compound microscope equipped with double eyepieces and a binoviewer. In such a
microscope, both eyes observe the same image, with the two eyepieces serving to provide
greater observing comfort. However, the image in such a microscope is no different from
that obtained with a single monocular eyepiece.

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 4. Physics Division

4.1 Refractometer

Glass, as physical evidence, is repeatedly encountered in a number of crimes, such as

housebreak, traffic collisions, homicides, sexual assaults, gunfire incidents, arson, and
vandalism. Consequently, during investigations glass forms one of the evidentiary
materials in many criminal cases. The flakes of broken glass window panes may be
lodged in suspect’s garments or shoes during the act of burglary or crime, particles of
headlight glass found at the crime scene may offer indications that may confirm the
identity of a suspected vehicle.

Abbe’s Refractometer

A forensic glass examination is typically a comparison of two or more glass fragments in

an attempt to determine if they originated from different sources. Less frequently, it is a
question of determination of end use, or glass provenance. Glass examinations are
commonly conducted by refractive index measurements by the application of
Refractometers. A refractometer is a laboratory or field device for the measurement of an
index of refraction.

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 4.2 Scanning Electron Microscope

Scanning Electronic Microscope, popularly known as the SEM, is used for observation of
specimen surfaces. When the specimen is irradiated with a fine electron beam, the
secondary electrons are emitted from the specimen surface. The topography of the
surface can be observed by two- dimensional scanning of the electron beam over the
surface and acquisition of an image from the detected secondary electrons.

Scanning Electronic Microscope

The Scanning Electronic Microscope requires an electron Optical system to produce an

electron probe, a specimen stage to place the specimen, a secondary electron detector to
collect secondary electron, an image display unit, and an operation system to perform
various operations. The electron optical system consists of an electron gun, a condenser
lens and an objective lens to produce an electron probe, a scanning coil to scan the
electron probe and other components. The electron optical system present which is inside
of the microscope column and the space surrounding the specimen are kept at vacuum.

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 4.3 Differential Thermal Analysis

It consists of measuring changes in heat content as function of difference of temperature

between the sample under investigation and a thermally inert reference compound as the
two materials are heated at elevated temperature or cooled to sub normal temperatures at
predetermined rates. In this manner enthalpy changes such as melting, vaporization,
crystallographic phase transition or chemical changes are detected from the endo and
exothermic bands and peaks that appear on the thermo grams. The corresponding change
in weight is determined by Thermo gravimetric analysis. Complete thermo analytical data
are obtained only by utilizing both methods of analysis. The information obtained,
coupled with X-Ray Diffraction, Optical and chemical analysis of the residues and any
involved gases provides a quantitative estimation of solid state reactions.

4.4 Sound Spectrograph

A spectrograph is an instrument that separates incoming light according to its wavelength

and records the resulting spectrum in some detector. The sound spectrograph, an
automatic sound wave analyzer, is used for the analysis and classification of human
speech sounds and in the analysis and treatment of speech and hearing disorders. The
analog sound spectrograph samples energy levels in a small frequency range from a
magnetic tape recording and marks those energy levels on electrically sensitive paper.

Sound Spectrograph

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 This instrument then analyses the next small frequency range and samples and marks the
energy levels at that point. This process is repeated until the entire desired frequency
range is analyzed for that portion of the recording. The finished product is known as
Spectrogram. It is a graphic depiction of the patterns, in the form of bars or formants, of
the acoustical events during the time frame analyzed.

5. Ballistics and Explosives Division

5.1 Integrated Ballistics Identification System

The Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) is used for the acquisition, storage
and comparison of digital images from projectiles and cartridge cases. The system is a
screening tool that facilitates the laboratory to categorize local, national and international
relationships that may exist amongst firearms cases surrender for inspection. From side to
side the application of computers and a improved microscope, an operator can compare
previously recorded images to new evidence received. Imaginings of projectiles and
cartridge cases are digitally taken, and uploaded for comparison.

Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS)

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 5.2 Neutron Activation Analysis of GSR

Neutron activation is a general term for irradiating material with neutrons to create
radionuclide. Neutron Activation Analysis was discovered in 1936 when Hevesy and
Levi revealed that sample comprising certain uncommon earth elements became
extremely radioactive after exposure to a source of neutrons. From this scrutiny; they
rapidly predict the probable of engaging nuclear reactions on samples trailed by capacity
of the induced radioactivity to facilitate both qualitative and quantitative identification of
many elements.

Neutron Activation Analysis Unit

5.3 Comparison Microscope

A comparison microscope is a device used to analyze side-by-side specimens. It contains

of two microscopes linked by an optical bridge, which outcomes in a divided view
window enabling two separate objects to be viewed simultaneously. Comparison
Microscope is essentially two microscopes linked to an optical bridge that permits the
observer to detect two objects concurrently with the same grade of magnification. This
instrument can have a monocular or binocular eyepiece

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 Comparison Microscope

5.4 Ballistics Chronograph

Chronograph is an instrument used for recording graphically the moment or duration of

an event, measuring intervals of time. The ballistic chronograph measures and displays
the velocity of a projectile passing through it. The device infers the activation of the
internal sensors caused by the passing projectile as time-stamped events. Subsequently all
the sensors are activated the processor does some calculation with the time-stamps and
shows the velocity measurement. Most chronographs operate on ambient light and the
‘shadow’ of the projectile. This dependence on ambient conditions creates a source of
error for measurements. The chronograph built for this project is not dependent on
ambient light conditions, so measurements are more repeatable.

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 Ballistics Chronograph

5.5 Energy Dispersive X- Ray Fluorescence

XRF is a non-destructive analytical technique used to determine the elemental

composition of materials. XRF Technique based on the emission of characteristic X-ray
radiation when a sample is exposed to exciting radiation from more energetic X-ray. The
spectra are displayed as intensity verses energy or wavelength.

6. Fingerprints Division

6.1 Automated Fingerprint Identification System

AFIS is primarily use by forensic scientists for criminal identification. The assembly of
physical evidence at a crime scene will be useless if such evidence cannot be properly
handled and analyzed. Since fingerprints are the most often recovered physical evidence,
constructing the system of investigating such prints real contribute the maximum toward
greater success in identifying criminal offenders through the use of physical evidence.
Automated Fingerprint Identification System or AFIS enables computers to make rapid
and accurate comparisons between fingerprints and the vast number of fingerprints in
police records.

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 AFIS is a biometrics system usually used in law enforcement where groups of prints
improved in the crime scene were linked against the database of recognized and
unidentified prints.

Automated Fingerprint Identification System

6.2 Poli Light

A Poli Light Source is made up of a powerful lamp containing the ultra-violet, visible and
infrared components of light. It then screens down the light into separate color bands that
improve the imagining of evidence by light interface techniques comprising fluorescence
(evidence glows), absorption (evidence darkens), and oblique lighting (small particle
evidence exposed). The use of fluorescent improvement procedures that praise a light
source significantly upsurges the kinds of planes from which a latent fingerprint can be
identified.

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 Poli Light

7. Summary

 Forensic scientists use the similar instruments and techniques used by scientists
performing other kinds of research. It is essential that the forensic scientist must be
aware of the various sources of information and possess understanding of various
tools and techniques that can give deeper understanding of the diverse fields of the
forensic sciences and the problems that are unique to these fields.

 A comparison microscope is a device used to analyze side-by-side specimens. It

contains of two microscopes linked by an optical bridge, which outcomes in a
divided view window enabling two separate objects to be viewed simultaneously.

 Chronograph is an instrument used for recording graphically the moment or duration

of an event, measuring intervals of time. The ballistic chronograph measures and
displays the velocity of a projectile passing through it.

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  XRF is a non-destructive analytical technique used to determine the elemental
composition of materials.

 AFIS is primarily use by forensic scientists for criminal identification. The assembly
of physical evidence at a crime scene will be useless if such evidence cannot be
properly handled and analyzed.

 A Poli Light Source is made up of a powerful lamp containing the ultra-violet,

visible and infrared components of light.

FORENSIC SCIENCE PAPER No.1: General Forensic Science

MODULE No.28: Tools and Techniques- I