Forensic Paint Analysis

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Forensic scientists help analyse evidence left at a crime scene. They can help as they have special techniques to study small or extremely damaged evidence. Sometimes, paint samples need to be anaylsed. Forensic paint analyses and comparisons are typically distinguished by sample size that precludes the application of many standard industrial paint analysis protocols. A forensic paint examiner's goal is to assess the significance of any observed differences. The absence of significant differences at the conclusion of an analysis suggests that the paint samples could have a common origin. The forensic paint examiner must address concerns such as the issues of an investigation, sample size, complexity and condition, environmental effects, and collection methods. These factors require that the forensic paint examiner must choose test methods, sample preparation schemes, test sequence, and degree of sample alteration and consumption suitable to each specific case. Paint films are characterised by a number of physical and chemical features. The physical characteristics may include colour, layer sequence and thickness, surface and layer features, contaminants, and weathering. The…show more content…
The source of the samples could include walls, transfers and smears on vehicles, or transfers to or from individuals, such as damaged fabric with paint inclusions. Paint samples should be correctly packaged and submitted to storage until the examination commences. Known paint samples from the crime scene are also examined in order for comparison, however, variations in thickness and layer sequences over short distances can exist across a painted surface and therefore complicate determination. A number of methods can be used to remove paint flakes from the parent surface. These can include cutting samples of the entire layer structure or prying loosely attached

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