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Forensic Chemistry/Trace evidence

The physical contact between a suspect and a victim can and often does result in the transfer of trace materials such as hairs, fibers, paint, and glass. The Forensic Chemistry Section of the Crime Laboratory is responsible the examination and analysis of these types of trace materials, along with gunshot residue, fabrics, fabric impressions, adhesives, tapes, cosmetics, and trash bags. Physical matches, such as tear matches and fracture matches are also examined. In order to conduct these examinations, microscopy, comparison microscopy, microspectrophotometry, infrared spectrophotometry and gas chromatography is used.

Fiber analysis on a microspectrophotometer Polymer analysis on the pyrolysis gas chromatograph

The Forensic Chemistry Section participates in the Paint Debris Query (PDQ) system, sponsored by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The PDQ database allows an examiner to process an automotive paint chip and potentially determine the make, model, and year of a vehicle. The PDQ database is especially important in difficult cases where investigators do not have a clear suspect vehicle.

The Forensic Chemistry Section is also responsible for the serological screening of physical evidence for stains such as blood and semen.

Biological screening Blood spatter measurements

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