E30.01 - Criminalistics

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice is intended for use as a sampling technique within a general scheme for the analysis of ignitable liquids and ignitable liquid residues from fire debris samples in accordance with Guide E3245.  
4.2 Headspace samples obtained using this practice are screened using a gas chromatograph with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) or analyzed using a gas chromatograph with a mass spectrometer (GC-MS, refer to Test Method E1618).  
4.3 This practice is most applicable for sampling light to medium range ignitable liquids.3, 4, 5, 6 It is not capable of sufficient recovery of heavy range ignitable liquids to support accurate analysis using Test Method E1618.
Note 1: When present in high concentrations, highly volatile compounds can saturate the headspace, inhibiting the recovery of less volatile compounds by this practice. This skewed recovery can lead to the detection or identification of only the more volatile compounds in the sample.  
4.4 This practice is useful for sampling fire debris to screen for the presence of ignitable liquid residues prior to extraction with other techniques, such as those described in Practices E1386, E1412, E1413, and E2154, and E3189.  
4.4.1 This practice is less capable of recovering limited quantities of ignitable liquids than Practices E1386, E1412, E1413, E2154, and E3189, particularly for heavy range compounds.  
4.5 This practice only removes a small aliquot of the headspace vapor from a closed container; therefore, the fire debris sample remains in approximately the same condition in which it was submitted, and reanalysis using a new headspace sample, or a different sampling technique, is possible. However, removing multiple headspace samples continually reduces the concentration of ignitable liquid vapors, if originally present, and can eventually result in non-recovery by static headspace sampling.
Note 2: The headspace sample collected using this practice is consumed in the subsequent screening by GC-FID o...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes the procedure for removing a vapor sample from the headspace of a fire debris container for the purpose of detecting or identifying ignitable liquid residues.  
1.2 Separation and concentration procedures are listed in the referenced documents. (See Practices E1386, E1412, E1413, E2154, and E3189.)  
1.3 This practice is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 These terms have particular application to gunshot residue analysis. In addition, several sources of definitions were used in the development of this terminology (1-7).3
SCOPE
1.1 This terminology standard is a compilation of terms and corresponding definitions that are used in gunshot residue analysis. Some legal or scientific terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in other readily available sources are included.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide can assist the examiner in selecting and organizing a general analytical scheme for the evaluation and documentation of physical comparisons of materials for a potential physical fit. The type and size of material influences the exact steps and equipment needed to assess the physical fit. Evaluation, documentation, and interpretation are all important parts of a physical fit examination.  
5.2 This guide addresses special considerations for physical fit analysis for glass, skeletal material, polymers, tapes and textiles.  
5.3 Foundations of physical fit examination in forensic science are described in the literature, including studies on the fractography of different materials and the use of physical fit examinations in forensic casework (1-12).  
5.4 It is not the intention of this guide to present comprehensive theories regarding the mechanism of fractures, tearing, cutting, or other methods of separation. This information is available from training courses and reference materials such as Practice C1256 and others (3-7, 13).
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the forensic physical fit examinations for the macroscopical and microscopical examinations of broken, torn, or separated materials for the purpose of determining whether or not they were once joined together to form a single object. This guide is intended as an overview of the process for the physical fit examination of these materials and to assist individuals in the evaluation and documentation of their physical comparisons.  
1.2 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is useful for the determination of elemental concentrations in the range of approximately 0.1 µgg-1 to 10 percent (%) (See Table X1.1) in soda-lime glass samples (7 and 8). A standard test method can aid in the interchange of data between laboratories and in the creation and use of glass databases.  
5.2 The determination of elemental concentrations in glass provides high discriminating value in the forensic comparison of glass fragments.  
5.3 This test method produces minimal destruction of the sample. Microscopic craters of 50 µm to 100 µm in diameter by 80 µm to 150 µm deep are left in the glass fragment after analysis. The mass removed per replicate is approximately 0.4 µg to 3 µg (6).  
5.4 Appropriate sampling techniques shall be used to account for natural heterogeneity of the materials at a microscopic scale.  
5.5 The precision, bias, and limits of detection of the method (for each element measured) shall be established during validation of the method. The measurement uncertainty of any concentration value used for a comparison shall be recorded with the concentration.  
5.6 Acid digestion of glass followed by either Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) or Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) can also be used for trace elemental analysis of glass, and offer similar detection levels and the ability for quantitative analysis. However, these methods are destructive, and require larger sample sizes and more sample preparation (Test Method E2330).  
5.7 Micro X-Ray Fluorescence (µ-XRF) uses comparable sample sizes to those used for LA-ICP-MS with the advantage of being non-destructive of the sample. Some of the drawbacks of µ-XRF include lower sensitivity and precision, and longer analysis time (Test Method E2926).  
5.8 Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (SEM-EDS) is also available for elemental analysis, but it is of limited use for forensic glass source d...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for the quantitative elemental analysis of the following seventeen elements: lithium (Li), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), rubidium (Rb), strontium (Sr), zirconium (Zr), barium (Ba), lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), neodymium (Nd), hafnium (Hf) and lead (Pb) through the use of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for the forensic comparison of glass fragments. The potential of these elements to provide the best discrimination among different sources of soda-lime glasses has been published elsewhere (1-5).2 Silicon (Si) is also monitored for use as a normalization standard. Additional elements may be added as needed, for example, tin (Sn) can be used to monitor the orientation of float glass fragments.  
1.2 The method only consumes approximately 0.4 µg to 3 µg of glass per replicate and is suitable for the analysis of full thickness samples as well as irregularly shaped fragments as small as 0.1 mm by 0.1 mm by 0.2 mm (6) in dimension. The concentrations of the elements listed above range from the low parts per million (µgg-1) to percent (%) levels in soda-lime glass, the most common type encountered in forensic cases. This standard method can be applied for the quantitative analysis of other glass types; however, some modifications in the reference standard glasses and the element menu may be required.  
1.3 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the respo...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The overarching goals of the forensic analysis of geological materials include (A) identification of an unknown material (see 11.3), (B) analysis of soils, sediments, or rocks to restrict their possible geographic origins as part of a provenance analysis (see 11.4), and (C) comparison of two or more samples to assess if they could have originated from the same source or to exclude a common source based on observation of exclusionary differences (see 11.5). XRD is only one analytical method that can be applied to the evidentiary samples in service of these distinct goals. Guidance for the analysis of forensic geological materials can be found in Refs (2-4).  
5.2 Within the analytical scheme of geological materials, XRD analysis is used to: identify the crystalline components within a sample; identify the crystalline components separated from a mixture, typically clay-sized material (see 8.8), or a selected particle class for which additional analysis is needed (see 8.11); or compare two or more samples based on the identified crystalline phases or diffraction patterns (see 11.5).  
5.2.1 Non-destructive XRD analysis can be performed in situ on geological material adhering to a substrate (see 8.12.3).  
5.2.2 The most common forensic applications of XRD to geological materials are (A) identification or confirmation of a selected phase or fraction of a sample (see 8.12), (B) identification of minerals in the clay-sized fractions of soils (see 8.8), and (C) identification of the phases of the hydrated cement component of concrete or mortar.  
5.3 This guide is intended to be used with other methods of analysis (for example, polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, palynology) within a more comprehensive analytical scheme for the forensic analysis or comparison of geological materials.  
5.3.1 Comprehensive criteria for forensic comparisons of geological material integrating multiple analytical methods and provenance estimations (see 11.4) are ...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers techniques and procedures for the use of powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) in the forensic analysis of geological materials (to include soils, rocks, sediments, and materials derived from them such as concrete), to enable non-consumptive identification of solid crystalline materials present as single components or multi-component mixtures.  
1.2 This guide makes recommendations for the preparation of geological materials for powder XRD analysis with adaptations for samples of limited quantity, instrumental configuration to generate high-quality XRD data, identification of crystalline materials by comparison to published diffraction data, and forensic comparison of XRD patterns from two or more samples of geological materials to support criminal investigations.  
1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Other units are avoided, in general, but there is a long-standing tradition of expressing X-ray wavelengths and lattice spacing in units of Ångströms (Å). One Ångström = 10–10 meter (m) = 0.1 nanometer (nm).  
1.4 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A training program provides the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary for a trainee to become a qualified forensic hair examiner.  
4.2 A trainee is directly supervised by a qualified examiner throughout their training. At the end of the training program, a successful trainee is capable of forming opinions, presenting and explaining evidence, and understanding the limitations of analytical results and interpretations based upon sound scientific knowledge, validated procedures, and practical experience.  
4.3 A trainee is required to meet the minimum training criteria in Practice E2917 and this practice. It is the laboratory management’s responsibility to ensure the selected trainee has the appropriate educational background. It is recommended that, at a minimum, the trainee possess a bachelor’s degree in a natural science.  
4.4 This document outlines lessons, practical exercises, and criteria to monitor and evaluate trainee progress and is designed to be incorporated into an overall laboratory training program.  
4.5 Additional training beyond that which is listed here should be made available to the trainee. Such training might include off-site courses, internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners. Continuing education and training will provide a forensic examiner the opportunity to remain current in the field.  
4.6 Additional analyses can be performed on hairs that have been chemically altered (for example, dyed hair) or have trace materials on the surface (for example, glitter). Such techniques are beyond the scope of this document.  
4.7 This practice addresses the benefit of following microscopical examinations with DNA analysis.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers training guidelines for use by forensic laboratory personnel responsible for training forensic examiners that will perform hair examinations, including microscopical comparisons of human hair.  
1.2 Forensic hair examiners are trained in accordance with Practice E2917 and the discipline-specific guidelines (Guide E3316) and criteria within this practice.  
1.3 This practice contains guidelines that include the tasks, goals, and objectives that allow the trainee to acquire the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities to independently perform casework in the microscopical examination of hair.  
1.4 This practice addresses the correlation between the analytical results of microscopical examinations and the potential for DNA analysis.  
1.5 This practice addresses training for the microscopical examination of hairs and not the examination of chemical alterations (for example, hair dye) or trace materials on the surface of hairs (for example, hair care products).  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is intended to be used by subject matter experts in the field of forensic pGSR analysis who have met their laboratory’s technical requirements to be assigned to the role of trainer in the category of testing that deals with the detection, analysis, and classification of pGSR particles.  
5.2 This practice is intended to be used in conjunction with Practice E2917, as well as the laboratory’s existing generalized training protocols, standard operating procedures, and quality practices, to develop a complete training-to-competency program in pGSR analysis by SEM/EDS. This practice provides the required additional, discipline-specific elements for pGSR analysis by SEM/EDS, in accordance with 5.3.2 of Practice E2917; it does not include the core specific elements covered in 5.3.1 of Practice E2917.  
5.3 The topics and procedures outlined in this practice are grounded in the body of scientific literature that exists in the field of pGSR examination.  
5.3.1 Additional sources of information on pGSR examination, not specifically mentioned in this document, should be considered, added, or substituted. A review of new sources of information on general forensic methods and pGSR examinations should be carried out on a regular basis (e.g. annually or biannually) to incorporate well-established current findings and methods into the training program and to replace any outdated methods.  
5.3.2 When possible, make additional training available to the trainee. Such training might include off-site short courses, short internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes the minimum requirements of a training program in primer gunshot residue (pGSR) analysis by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). It describes lessons, practical exercises, and progress monitoring and evaluation that should be part of a laboratory’s training program.  
1.2 The primary purpose of this practice is to facilitate the development and implementation of training programs in crime laboratories or other such analytical entities that participate in the detection, analysis, and classification of pGSR particles.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice is useful for preparing extracts from fire debris for subsequent analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (see Test Method E1618).  
4.2 This practice is useful to reduce potential fractionation during separation, such as when attempting to distinguish between various grades of fuel oil.  
4.3 This practice is particularly useful for extraction from nonporous surfaces such as glass, or the interior of burned containers. It is also well suited to the extraction of ignitable liquid residues from samples that are not amenable to extraction using Practice E1412.  
4.4 This practice lacks specificity to separate and isolate ignitable liquids from interfering compounds present in the fire debris.  
4.5 This practice is not suitable for the extraction of extremely volatile compounds and ignitable liquids (for example, acetone, butane, ethanol, propane, some cigarette lighter fluids), which could evaporate during the concentration step.  
4.6 This is a destructive technique. Whenever possible, this technique should only be used when a representative portion of the sample can be preserved for reanalysis. Those portions of the sample subjected to this procedure could be unsuitable for resampling. If sample spoliation is an issue, a nondestructive extraction technique (for example, Practices E1412, E2154) should be used prior to this technique.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the procedure for removing small quantities of ignitable liquid residue from samples of fire debris using solvent to extract the residue.  
1.2 This practice is suitable for extracting ignitable liquid residues over a wide range of concentrations.  
1.3 Alternate separation and concentration procedures are listed in the referenced documents (Practices E1388, E1412, E1413, E2154, and E3189).  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 µ-XRF is a nondestructive qualitative elemental analysis technique used for polymers. It involves excitation of a sample by an X-ray source resulting in the emission of characteristic X-rays detected using an energy dispersive X-ray detector. Results are displayed simultaneously as a spectrum of intensity as a function of energy for elements of atomic number 11 or greater.  
4.2 µ-XRF enables the determination of the elemental composition of a specimen and can be utilized for comparisons of components of polymeric materials (for example, tape backings, tape adhesives, paint layers).  
4.3 Comparisons of X-ray spectra acquired from polymer samples are conducted for source discrimination or potential association.  
4.4 Quantitative processes for µ-XRF analysis are available but are not used for polymer analyses because of the lack of prepared polymer standard reference samples.  
4.5 In general, information available from a heterogeneous specimen diminishes as its size is reduced or its condition degrades, which lessens its likelihood of being representative of the source material.  
4.6 µ-XRF data collected from polymers is limited to specific information (for example, elements detected, relative elemental abundance); additional analytical procedures are required to further characterize and identify the chemical composition of the polymer sample.  
4.7 Limitations of µ-XRF include the inability to detect some elements in trace concentrations, the inability to analyze individual particles, the potential interference related to the penetration depth of the beam relative to the sample thickness, the inability to resolve the peaks of some elements (for example, Ba Lα / Ti Kα), and the potential for discoloration of some materials due to exposure to radiation.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers recommended techniques and procedures intended for use by forensic laboratory personnel that perform µ-XRF analysis of polymer samples.  
1.2 This guide describes various techniques and procedures used in the µ-XRF analysis of polymers that include sample handling and preparation, instrument operating conditions, and spectral data collection, evaluation and interpretation.  
1.3 This guide describes the application of µ-XRF systems equipped with either mono- or poly- capillary optics and an energy dispersive X-ray detector (EDS).  
1.4 This guide is intended to be applied within the scope of a broader analytical scheme (for example, Guide E1610, Guide E3260) for the forensic analysis of a polymer sample (1-6).2 A µ-XRF analysis can provide additional information regarding the potential relationships between the sources of polymeric materials.  
1.5 The fundamental aspects of the composition and manufacture of polymeric materials or theory of X-ray fluorescence can be found in various texts (7-18).  
1.6 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917, E3233, E3234), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 These terms have particular application to fire debris analysis. In addition, several sources of definitions were used in the development of this terminology: Hawley’s Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Fifteenth Edition (1);4  Kirk’s Fire Investigation, Fifth Edition (2); The Chemistry and Technology of Petroleum, Third Edition (3); Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition (4); and Fire Debris Analysis  (5). A suitable definition was developed after all of the sources were found wanting.
SCOPE
1.1 This terminology standard is a compilation of terms and corresponding definitions that are used in fire debris analysis. Some legal or scientific terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in other readily available sources are included.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Color is an easily observable characteristic of soils and is integral to the taxonomic classifications of soils (6-8); factors including parent material, hydrology, vegetation, and extent of soil weathering, can affect soil color, making color a valuable diagnostic tool for forensic examination purposes.  
4.2 Soil color is sufficiently variable among soils to be used for differentiation of many soils in forensic examinations (9, 10) (see Section 6 for the test method for color determination and comparison criteria) as determined by visual characterization in the Munsell color system.  
4.3 Instrumental techniques are suitable for color determination of soil evidence but are not covered within this practice.  
4.4 Color determinations of soil samples are also used within soil provenance assessments to provide investigative leads or aid in searches. Interpretation of soil color for soil provenance is case-specific and beyond the scope of this practice, but the methods of color determination (6.5.1 to 6.5.2) and documentation (6.7) described here should be applied to soil color within soil provenance cases.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers visual color determination of soil/geologic material within the context of a forensic examination and is intended for use by laboratory personnel.  
1.1.1 This practice recommends use of soil color for: the initial screening of soil samples in forensic casework, prioritization of known soil exemplars for detailed analysis, and includes a test method for color determination in the Munsell color system and comparison among samples.  
1.2 Units—Units in the Munsell color system are used throughout this document.  
1.3 This practice is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 TLC is an inexpensive and simple technique that could be used to complement other analytical techniques within a general analytical scheme related to forensic fiber examination.  
5.2 Consider the forensic analysis of fiber colorants using TLC for single fiber comparisons only when the sample size is adequate (that is, enough colorant can be extracted for analysis) and it is not possible to discriminate between the fibers of interest using other techniques, such as comparison microscopy and MSP. Larger fibrous units (for example, thread or tuft) can be treated as an individual sample if determined to be homogeneous. Do not treat fibers that cannot be directly related to each other as a collective sample for the purposes of TLC.  
5.3 The extraction procedures carried out prior to TLC analysis can provide useful information about dye classification. TLC can provide qualitative information about dye components. Similar colors made up of different dye components can be differentiated using this technique. The application of TLC may serve to discriminate between fibers or it may support the possibility of fibers sharing a common source.  
5.4 TLC can be prohibitively difficult or undesirable in some circumstances. Short lengths of fibers or pale-colored fibers can lack adequate amounts of colorant necessary to be examined by TLC. Dye extraction from some fibers can be impossible (2, 3). Some fiber types do not truly extract, but change or lose color. Reactive dyes are covalently bonded to the fiber and typically cannot be removed by conventional extraction methods, but can be released from cotton and wool by disrupting the fiber by enzymatic or chemical digestion, respectively (1). The desire to preserve evidence from deleterious change or for possible analysis by another examiner can preclude removing the color or employing a destructive method for analysis.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is intended as an overview of the Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) of fiber colorants (or individual dye components) present in dyed fibers. It is intended to be applied within the scope of a broader analytical scheme for the forensic analysis of fiber samples. TLC could provide information that cannot be obtained through other color analyses (such as microspectrophotometry (MSP)) (1).2  
1.2 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework (see Practice E3255).  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Microscopical examination is generally a non-destructive, rapid, and reproducible means of determining the microscopic characteristics, optical properties, and generic polymer type of textile fibers.  
4.2 Side-by-side microscopical comparisons provide a highly discriminating and efficient method of determining if two or more fibers can be differentiated.  
4.3 This guideline requires specific pieces of instrumentation outlined herein.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard covers guidelines for microscopical examinations employed in forensic fiber classification, identification, and comparison. The microscopical examination of fibers includes the use of a variety of light microscopes, such as stereomicroscopes, compound microscopes, and comparison microscopes, as well as a variety of illumination types, such as bright field, polarized light, fluorescence, and interference. In certain instances, the scanning electron microscope can yield additional information. The particular test(s) or techniques employed by each examiner or laboratory will depend upon available equipment, examiner training, and the nature and extent of the fiber evidence.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide is designed to assist an examiner in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods for the analysis, comparison, and identification of fibers using IR spectroscopy. IR spectroscopy can provide additional compositional information than is obtained using polarized light microscopy alone. The extent to which IR spectral comparison is conducted will vary with specific sample and case evaluations.  
5.2 IR analysis should follow visible and fluorescence comparison microscopy, polarized light microscopy, and ultraviolet (UV)/visible spectroscopy. If no exclusionary differences are noted between the known and unknown samples in optical properties, then proceed to IR spectroscopy as the next step in the analytical scheme, as applicable.  
Note 1: IR analysis generally follows the aforementioned techniques since sample preparation (for example, flattening) irreversibly changes fiber morphology.  
5.3 IR spectroscopy should be conducted before dye extraction for chromatography due to the semi-destructive nature of the extraction technique. Because of the large number of sub-generic classes, forensic examination of acrylic and modacrylic fibers is likely to benefit significantly from IR spectral analysis (5). Useful distinctions between subtypes of nylon and polyester fibers can also be made by IR spectroscopy.  
5.4 IR spectroscopy can provide molecular information regarding major organic and inorganic components. Components in lesser amounts are typically more difficult to identify. Reasons for this include interference of the absorption bands of the major components with the less-intense bands of minor components, and sensitivity issues whereby the minor components are present at concentrations below the detection limits of the instrument.  
5.5 Fiber samples are prepared and mounted for microscopical IR analysis by a variety of techniques. IR spectra of fibers are obtained using an IR spectrometer coupled with an IR microscope, ATR, or diamond...
SCOPE
1.1 Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a valuable method of fiber polymer identification and comparison in forensic examinations. The use of IR microscopes, coupled with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, has greatly simplified the IR analysis of single fibers, thus making the technique feasible for routine use in the forensic laboratory. This guide provides basic recommendations and information about IR spectrometers and accessories, with an emphasis on sampling techniques specific to fiber examinations. The particular method(s) employed by each examiner or laboratory will depend upon available equipment, examiner training, sample suitability, and sample size.  
1.2 This guide is intended for examiners with a basic knowledge of the theory and practice of IR spectroscopy, as well as experience in the handling and forensic examination of fibers. In addition, this guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme.  
1.3 If polymer identification is not readily apparent from optical data alone, an additional method of analysis, such as microchemical tests, melting point, IR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, or pyrolysis gas chromatography, should be used. An advantage of IR spectroscopy is that the instrumentation is readily available in most forensic laboratories and the technique is minimally destructive.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practice...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The construction, composition, and color of textiles contain useful comparative characteristics for forensic examinations. Textiles are observed in a variety of constructions: woven, knit, nonwoven, or in combination. The range of colors in which textiles are offered in the marketplace is vast and constantly changing due to styles and seasons.  
5.2 A complete characterization of the fabrics, including their construction, and other materials used in the assemblage of a textile (for example, sewing thread) is a critical component of a comprehensive forensic fabric or cordage examination.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is intended to assist individuals and laboratories that conduct examinations of fabrics and cordage for the purposes of analyzing and comparing types of fabric, cordage and damage. A complete characterization of the fabrics, including their construction and other materials used in the assemblage of a textile (for example, sewing thread), is a critical component of a comprehensive forensic fabric or cordage examination.  
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic case work  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 A microscopical hair examination is conducted to determine if the item is a hair; from a human; from a particular somatic region; characteristic of a broad geographically-assigned ancestral group; characteristic of a particular growth phase; damaged; symptomatic of disease, condition, or disorder; forcibly removed; chemically altered (for example, dyed or bleached); suitable for microscopical comparison; suitable for DNA analysis; and similar to or different from a known sample (4-9).  
4.2 Most often, hairs from the head and pubic regions of the body are used for microscopical comparisons. There is usually more interpersonal variability in the characteristics of head and pubic hairs than in the hairs from other somatic regions. Head hairs usually show more interpersonal variation than pubic hairs. Hairs from other somatic regions may also be compared, but these comparisons are usually limited and less frequently conducted. Accordingly, this guide primarily considers human head and pubic hair comparisons.  
4.3 Microscopical hair comparisons are not a means of individualization (10). This limitation is to be stated in any communication (for example, reports, testimony) when an association is reported.  
4.4 Additional analyses can be performed on hairs that have been chemically altered (for example, dyed hair) or have trace materials on the surface (for example, glitter). Such techniques are beyond the scope of this document.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers procedures used by forensic laboratory personnel in the forensic examination of hair by microscopy, including microscopical comparisons and classification of hair samples.  
1.2 This guide addresses instrument setup, hair collection, sample handling techniques, and the use of various microscopes in the examination and comparison of hair.  
1.3 This guide addresses the benefit of following microscopical examinations with DNA analysis.  
1.4 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is intended to advise and assist the analyst in the preparation of polymer samples (for example, paint and tape) for SEM/EDS, the collection of data by SEM/EDS, and the interpretation of images and data resulting from these analyses.  
4.2 When polymers are constructed as layered materials, SEM/EDS analysis is conducted on each polymeric layer individually. This analysis can be hindered by a non-discernable layer structure (for example, smear, irregular segregation within the layer system).  
4.3 SEM-EDS data can be useful in:  
4.3.1 Layer Elucidation—SEM images provide insight into the layer structure of a sample.  
4.3.2 Texture Elucidation—SEM images and elemental maps provide insight into the texture (for example, surface topography, distribution of inclusions).  
4.3.3 Element Identification—Determination of the elements detected in a sample layer.  
4.3.4 Relative Elemental Abundance Determination—An EDS spectrum permits the relative abundance of elements in samples to be compared.  
4.4 In the context of a forensic polymer comparison, the evaluation of SEM/EDS results are intended to provide insight into the following forensic tasks:  
4.4.1 Comparison of structure, texture, and elemental data.  
4.4.2 Support for results from other instruments (for example, the presence of calcium, oxygen, and carbon in the EDS spectrum obtained from discrete particles indicates the presence of calcium carbonate as observed in an infrared spectrum). Refer to Guides E2937 and E3085 for further details.  
4.4.3 Significance of results given the presence of certain elements, layer structures, or textures.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers recommended techniques and procedures intended for use by forensic laboratory personnel that perform SEM/EDS analyses on polymer samples.  
1.2 This guide describes various techniques and procedures used in the SEM/EDS analysis of polymers that include sample handling and preparation, instrument operating conditions, and spectral data collection, evaluation and interpretation.  
1.3 The theoretical aspects of many of the topics presented can be found in texts such as Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray Microanalysis (1).2  
1.4 This guide is intended to be applied within the scope of a broader analytical scheme (for example, Guides E1610, E3260) for the forensic analysis of a polymer sample. An SEM/EDS analysis can provide additional information regarding the potential relationships between the sources of polymeric materials.  
1.5 This guide is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917, E3233, and E3234), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Other units of measurement are included in this standard where applicable as a result of common usage (for example, keV).  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide provides guidance in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods and instrumental parameters for the analysis, comparison, or identification of various polymeric materials by PGC and PGC/MS.  
4.1.1 PGC/MS can differentiate between classes of fibers (for example, acrylic, polyester, nylon) and within classes of fibers (for example, acrylics) (1-3).5  
4.1.2 Paint binders are differentiated based upon the variety of monomers used in paint formulations which could be difficult to identify by other analytical techniques. In addition, some additives can be detected or identified.  
4.1.3 Differentiation can be achieved by the separation and identification of organic components in the adhesive portion of tapes (4, 5) and in the backings of electrical tapes (6).  
4.1.4 PGC/MS can provide additional discrimination for other types of polymers such as automotive lenses, automotive body fillers, cosmetics, plastics, and rubbers (7-9).  
4.2 Pyrolysis breaks a large molecule into many smaller molecules in a reproducible fashion through the breaking of bonds by means of the application of thermal energy. Analytical pyrolysis is used to provide chemical information on organic-containing solids that cannot be dissolved or otherwise introduced into a chromatographic system. It is also used to analyze and compare solvents bound in a solid material (such as tape adhesives) (10). When analyzed using a separation technique such as gas chromatography, the smaller molecules produced through the action of pyrolysis form a pattern of separated fragments. Mass and structural information indicative of the original molecule are also available when a mass spectral detector is used.  
4.3 Although a destructive method, and therefore often placed at the end of an analytical scheme, the pyrograms produced from different polymer compositions form characteristic patterns that are useful for both identification of polymer type and comparisons between samples (4, 6...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers information and recommendations for the selection and application of various PGC and PGC/MS procedures and methods in the forensic examination of polymeric materials (for example, fibers, paint, tape). PGC and PGC/MS methods are used for the identification and comparison of the organic components of these materials. Refer to Practice D3452 for further information on the preparation of the pyrolysis system for polymeric analyses.  
1.2 This guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme such as Guides E1610 or E3260, or the SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examination Guidelines.  
1.3 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917, E3233, E3234), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
6.1 This practice is designed to assist the forensic explosives examiner in selecting and organizing an analytical scheme for identifying explosive residues. The amount and condition of the sample, as well as the availability of instrumental techniques, will determine the selected analytical scheme.  
6.2 The forensic explosives examiner considers relevant issues about the case investigation and submitted items, such as sample size, complexity and condition, environmental effects, and collection methods used. Considerations include test methods, sample preparation schemes, test sequences, and acceptable degrees of sample alteration and consumption that will be different for each case submission.  
6.3 This practice is used when insufficient material is present to follow Practice E3253.  
6.4 This practice is used in conjunction with the referenced documents.  
6.5 This practice does not attempt to address all the issues regarding sample analyses. There could be additional tests or analyses performed to provide further discrimination and characterization of samples.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the evaluation, selection, and application of techniques to establish an examination scheme for use by forensic explosives examiners to identify residues from low and high explosives. A foundation for the consistent approach to the analysis of visible and non-visible explosive residues from post-blast or other explosive-related scenes is provided. Methods for the development of identifying information that follows an efficient order of testing are described.  
1.2 This practice establishes requirements for the use of visual, physical, analytical, and instrumental techniques that provide structural and chemical information for an identification of an explosive residue.  
1.3 Techniques used in the examination of explosive residues include visual and microscopical inspection, physical characterization, ignition susceptibility testing, chemical and spot testing, and instrumental methods.  
1.4 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework (refer to the T/SWGFEX Suggested Guide for Explosives Analysis Training).  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is designed to assist the forensic explosives examiner in selecting and organizing an analytical scheme for identifying intact explosives. The amount and condition of the sample, as well as the availability of applicable instrumental techniques, will determine the selected analytical scheme.  
5.2 The forensic explosives examiner considers relevant issues about the case investigation and submitted items, such as sample size, complexity and condition, environmental effects, and collection methods used. Considerations include test methods, sample preparation schemes, test sequences, and acceptable degrees of sample alteration and consumption that will be different for each case submission.  
5.3 This practice provides the minimum criteria for identifying explosive material. The examiner determines an analytical scheme that uses techniques to correctly identify the material, which could include oxidizers, fuels, binders, and detection agents.  
5.4 This practice is used in conjunction with the referenced documents.  
5.5 This practice does not attempt to address all the issues regarding sample analyses. There could be additional tests or analyses performed to provide further discrimination and characterization of samples.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the evaluation, selection, and application of techniques to establish examination schemes for use by forensic explosives examiners to identify intact (unexploded) low and high explosives. A foundation for a consistent approach to the analysis of intact explosives is provided. Methods for the development of identifying information that follows an efficient order of testing are described.  
1.2 This practice establishes requirements for the use of visual, physical, analytical, and instrumental techniques that provide structural and chemical information for an identification of a high or low explosive material.  
1.3 Techniques used in the examination of explosives include visual and microscopical inspection, physical characterization, ignition susceptibility testing, chemical and spot testing, and instrumental methods.  
1.4 The minimum requirements for identification of commonly encountered explosives and explosive materials are listed.  
1.5 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework (refer to the T/SWGFEX Suggested Guide for Explosives Analysis Training).  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 These terms have particular application to explosives analysis. In addition, several sources of definitions were used in the development of this terminology: Hawley’s Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Sixteenth Edition  (1);3  Practical Bomb Scene Investigation, Third Edition  (2); Forensic Investigation of Explosions  (3); Chemistry of Pyrotechnics, Third Edition  (4); Explosives, Seventh Completely Revised and Updated Edition  (5); Dictionary of Explosions & Explosives  (6); PICATINNY Encyclopedia of Explosives and Related Items  (7, 8); Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary  (9); and DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms  (10). A suitable definition was developed after all of the sources were found wanting.
SCOPE
1.1 This is a compilation of terms and corresponding definitions related to the analysis of explosives. Legal or scientific terms that are generally understood or defined adequately in other readily available sources may not be included.  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide is designed to assist an analyst in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods and instrumental parameters for the analysis and comparison of paint pigments and colors. When used for comparison purposes, the goal is to determine whether any exclusionary differences exist between the samples.  
5.2 Paint sample spectra can be measured by reflectance or transmittance spectroscopy for comparison purposes. Transmittance measurements are generally preferred and are required for the analysis of UV absorbers in clear coats and the detailed analysis of effect pigments that are not opaque. Emission comparison by means of fluorescence is also measurable.  
5.3 It is not the intention of this guide to present comprehensive theories and methods of MSP. It is necessary that the analyst have an understanding of UV-Vis-NIR MSP and general concepts of specimen preparation before using this guide. This information is available from manufacturers’ reference materials, training courses, and references such as Eyring (1),3 Stoecklein (2), and Purcell (3).
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is intended to assist forensic analysts who conduct UV, visible, NIR, or fluorescence emission spectral analyses on small fragments of paint or use Guide E1610, as this guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme.  
1.2 This guide deals primarily with color measurements within the visible spectral range but will also include some details concerning measurements in the UV and NIR spectral ranges. The particular method(s) employed by each analyst depends upon available equipment, examiner training (Practices E2917, E3234), sample suitability, and sample size.  
1.3 This guide provides basic recommendations and information about microspectrophotometers.  
1.4 This guide does not address other areas of color evaluation such as colorimetric values, paint surface texture or pigment particle size, shape, or dispersion within a paint film that are evaluated by other forms of microscopy.  
1.5 This guide is directed at the color analysis of commercially prepared paints and coatings. It does not address the analysis or determination of provenance of artistic, historical, or restorative paints, but it could be useful in those fields.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.7 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917, E3234), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The preservation and storage of extracts recovered from fire debris or liquids submitted in a fire investigation provides a mechanism for reanalysis in the event that the original evidence is altered due to factors such as the extraction process (Practices E1386 and E1413), sample degradation, or failure of the original evidence container during post-analysis storage.  
5.2 Reanalysis of a stored sample extract could result in data that do not duplicate the data obtained during the initial analysis. Loss of the more volatile components of a stored sample can occur, and this possibility should be considered when interpreting data from a stored sample. Studies of gasoline and diesel show that results (that is, determination of presence and classification of an ignitable liquid, or determination of absence of an ignitable liquid) obtained from reanalysis data are in agreement with the initial analytical results. (1-4)  
5.3 Preserved extracts are either returned to the submitter for storage or catalogued and stored by the laboratory or other designee.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard covers procedures for the preservation of ignitable liquids and ignitable liquid residue extracts obtained from fire debris samples and questioned ignitable liquid samples. Extraction procedures are described in Section 2, Referenced Documents.  
1.2 Specific evaluation of this practice is limited to the preservation of gasoline and diesel fuel (1-4),2 the components of which together span the range of chemical classes and volatility of ignitable liquid residues commonly encountered in fire debris samples.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is designed to be used by forensic service providers when issuing final reports on pGSR analyses by SEM/EDS.  
4.2 This guide is intended to be used in conjunction with Practice E1588, Practice E620, and the SWGGSR Guide.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide describes the contents of a formal, written technical report expressing the results and interpretation of pGSR particle analysis by SEM/EDS by forensic service providers.  
1.2 This guide is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
6.1 This guide is designed to assist the forensic tape examiner in selecting and organizing an analytical scheme for the analysis, comparison, and identification of tapes. The size and condition of the sample(s) influences the choice of analytical scheme. The evaluation and interpretation of the data for each technique is an important part of an analytical scheme but it is outside the scope of this guide. These will be addressed in other ASTM standards.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is intended as an introduction to other standard guides for the forensic examination of pressure sensitive adhesive tape. It is intended to assist individuals who conduct forensic tape analyses in their evaluation, selection, and application of tests that can be of value to their examinations. This guide describes the construction and classification of various tapes and the methods to develop discriminatory information using an efficient order of testing. This standard provides an overview and guidance on the strengths and limitations of various techniques used in the analysis and comparison of pressure sensitive adhesive tapes. The goal is to provide a consistent approach to forensic tape analysis.  
1.2 The forensic tape examiner addresses concerns such as sample size, complexity and condition of the sample, environmental effects, collection and packaging methods, and case/investigation specific issues. These factors require that the forensic tape examiner choose test methods, sample preparation schemes, testing sequences, and degree of sample alteration and consumption that are suitable to each specific case.  
1.3 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917, Practice E3233), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Other units of measurement are included in this standard as applicable to industrial usage.  
1.5 Some of the methods discussed in this guide involve the use of chemicals, temperatures, and radiation sources. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This document will be of use to forensic laboratory personnel who are involved in the analysis of GSR samples by SEM/EDS (5).  
5.2 SEM/EDS analysis of GSR is a non-destructive method that provides (6, 7) both morphological information and the constituent elements detected in individual particles.  
5.3 Particle analysis contrasts with bulk sample methods, such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) (8), neutron activation analysis (NAA) (9), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), where the sampled material is dissolved or extracted prior to the determination of total element concentrations, thereby sacrificing size, shape, and individual particle identification.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the analysis of gunshot residue (GSR) by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS). The analysis is performed using automated software control of both the SEM and EDS systems, to screen the sample for candidate particles that could be associated with GSR. Manual control of the instrument is then used to perform confirmatory analysis and classification of the candidate particles. This practice refers solely to the analysis of electron microscopy stubs (1).2  
1.2 Since software and hardware formats vary among commercial systems, guidelines will be offered in the most general terms possible. For proper terminology and operation, consult the SEM/EDS system manuals for each instrument.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience (Practice E2917), and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide is applicable for all ignitable liquids as defined by Test Method E1618.  
5.2 This guide is applicable to solid and liquid samples (burned and unburned), which are packaged in a closed vapor-tight container (typically a can, fire debris bag, jar, or vial).  
5.3 This guide is to be used in conjunction with the referenced documents by an analyst familiar with the limitations and applicability of each technique used.  
5.4 This guide does not attempt to address all the issues regarding sample extraction and analysis. There could be additional laboratory validated or verified tests, extractions or analyses that can be performed to provide further discrimination and classification of ignitable liquids and ignitable liquid residues present in samples.  
5.5 This guide is intended to be used in conjunction with generally accepted forensic accreditation requirements including documentation and records.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide describes a systematic approach to the extraction, analysis, and classification of ignitable liquids and their residues in solid (for example, fire debris) and liquid samples.  
1.2 This guide addresses evidence handling, extraction methodologies, instrumental analysis techniques, and analytical data interpretation.  
1.3 This guide cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The procedures outlined herein are grounded in the generally accepted body of knowledge and experience in the field of forensic paint examination and comparison.  
3.2 With successful completion of this paint analysis training program, the trainee gains the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to perform, document, and evaluate forensic paint examinations and comparisons.  
3.3 This training practice covers a variety of instrumental methods which can be used in the analysis of paint. Not all laboratories will have access to all of the instrumentation. It is expected that a paint analysis training program will include all the techniques that are found within a laboratory's procedures for the forensic examination of paint.  
3.3.1 Instrumental methods that provide organic and inorganic analysis capabilities are utilized in the laboratory training program. Examples include Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis gas chromatography (PGC), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD).
SCOPE
1.1 This document is intended as a practice for use by laboratory personnel responsible for training examiners to perform forensic examinations and comparisons of paint. It contains a list of training objectives with recommended methods of instruction, reading assignments and structured exercises to provide practical experience for the trainee.  
1.1.1 The trainees and training program shall meet or exceed the minimum training requirements set forth in Practice E2917.  
1.1.2 Additional training could be required for a particular method or instrument referred to herein. The application of analytical techniques to paint analysis assumes the trainee is already competent in the use of each particular analytical technique or instrumental method.  
1.1.3 Other sources of information on forensic paint examination not specifically mentioned in this document can be considered and added.  
1.1.4 Additional paint analysis training beyond that which is listed here should be made available to the trainee. Such training could include off-site courses, internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners.  
1.1.5 Continuing education and training is recommended. Additional training provides a forensic paint examiner with the opportunity to remain current in the field.  
1.1.6 Paint samples occasionally are evaluated for physical matches of broken edges. This document does not provide training requirements for physical match comparisons. Additional training is required to conduct this type of analysis.  
1.2 This practice is in a modular format for easy adaptation to an individual laboratory’s training program. Recommendations as to lessons, practical exercises, progress monitoring, and trainee evaluations are included. Reading assignments are listed in each subsequent section of this practice; full citations are available in the References section.  
1.3 A paint analysis training program provides a theoretical foundation and basic practical skills necessary to prepare a trainee to become a qualified forensic paint examiner. At the end of the paint analysis training program, the trainee is capable of forming opinions based upon sound scientific knowledge, appropriate examinations, and practical experience. The trainee also is able to independently work cases, write reports, testify in court, and peer review cases. Upon completion of the program by a trainee or at some regular interval (for example, once per accreditation cycle), the training program should be evaluated for its efficacy and relevance according to the guidance set forth in Practice E2917.  
1.4 This standard practice does not address human factors (for example, cognitive bias). It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to address human factors during the initial or general training of...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The procedures outlined herein are grounded in the generally accepted body of knowledge and experience in the field of forensic tape examination and comparison.  
3.2 With successful completion of this tape analysis training program, the trainee gains the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to perform, document, and evaluate forensic tape examinations and comparisons.  
3.3 This training practice covers a variety of instrumental methods which can be used in the analysis of tape. Not all laboratories will have access to all of the instrumentation. It is expected that a tape analysis training program will include all the techniques that are found within a laboratory’s procedures for the forensic examination of tape.  
3.3.1 Instrumental methods that provide organic and inorganic analysis capabilities are utilized in the laboratory training program. Examples include Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis gas chromatography (PGC), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), or X-ray diffraction (XRD).
SCOPE
1.1 This standard is intended as a practice for use by laboratory personnel responsible for training examiners to perform forensic examinations and comparisons on pressure sensitive tapes and adhesives. It contains a list of training objectives with recommended methods of instruction, reading assignments and structured exercises to provide practical experience for the trainee.  
1.1.1 The trainees and training program shall meet or exceed the minimum training requirements set forth in Practice E2917.  
1.1.2 Additional training could be required for a particular method or instrument referred to herein. The application of analytical techniques to tape analysis assumes the trainee is already competent in the use of each particular analytical technique or instrumental method.  
1.1.3 Other sources of information on forensic tape examination not specifically mentioned in this document can be considered and added.  
1.1.4 Additional tape analysis training beyond that which is listed here should be made available to the trainee. Such training could include off-site courses, internships, and specialized training by experienced examiners.  
1.1.5 Continuing education and training is recommended. Additional training provides a forensic tape examiner with the opportunity to remain current in the field.  
1.1.6 Tape samples are evaluated for physical matches of the cut or torn end pieces. This practice does not provide training requirements for physical match comparisons. Additional training is required to conduct this type of analysis.  
1.2 This practice is in a modular format for easy adaptation to an individual laboratory’s training program. Recommendations as to lessons, practical exercises, progress monitoring, and trainee evaluations are included. Reading assignments are listed in each subsequent section of this practice; full citations are available in the References section.  
1.3 A tape analysis training program provides a theoretical foundation and basic practical skills necessary to prepare a trainee to become a qualified forensic tape examiner. At the end of the tape analysis training program, the trainee is capable of forming opinions based upon sound scientific knowledge, appropriate examinations, and practical experience. The trainee also is able to independently work cases, write reports, testify in court, and peer review cases. Upon completion of the program by a trainee or at some regular interval (for example, once per accreditation cycle), the training program should be evaluated for its efficacy and relevance according to the guidance set forth in Practice E2917.  
1.4 This practice does not address human factors (for example, cognitive bias). It is the responsibility of the user of this practice to address human factors during the initial or general t...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This technique is destructive, in that the glass fragments may need to be crushed, and digested in acid.  
4.2 Although the concentration ranges of the calibration curves shown in Appendix X1 are applicable to soda lime and borosilicate glass, this method is useful for the accurate measurement of element concentrations from a wide variety of glass samples.  
4.3 The determination of the element concentrations in glass yields data that can be used to compare fragments.  
4.4 It should be recognized that the method measures the bulk concentration of the target elements. Any extraneous material present on the glass that is not removed before digestion can result in inaccurate concentrations of the measured elements.  
4.5 The precision and accuracy of the method should be established in each laboratory that employs the method.
SCOPE
1.1 One objective of a forensic glass examination is to compare glass samples to determine if they can be discriminated using their physical, optical or chemical properties (for example, color, refractive index (RI), density, elemental composition). If the samples are distinguishable in any of these observed and measured properties, it may be concluded that they did not originate from the same source of broken glass. If the samples are indistinguishable in all of these observed and measured properties, the possibility that they originated from the same source of glass cannot be eliminated. The use of an elemental analysis method such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry yields high discrimination among sources of glass. (1-16)2  
1.2 This test method covers a procedure for quantitative determination of the concentrations of magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), rubidium (Rb), strontium (Sr), zirconium (Zr), barium (Ba), lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), neodymium (Nd), samarium (Sm), and lead (Pb) in glass samples.  
1.3 This procedure is applicable to irregularly shaped samples as small as 200 micrograms, for the comparison of fragments of a known source to the recovered fragments from a questioned source. These elements are present in soda lime and borosilicate glass in μg/L to % levels.  
1.4 This procedure is applicable to other elements, other types of glass, and other concentration ranges with appropriate modifications of the digestion procedure (if needed for full recovery of the additional elements), calibration standards and the mass spectrometer conditions. Calcium and potassium, for example, could be added to the list of analytes in a modified analysis scheme. Alternative methods for the determination of concentrations of elements in glass are listed in the references.  
1.5 For any given glass, approximately 40 elements are likely to be present at detectable concentrations using this procedure with minor modifications. The element set stated here is an example of some of these elements that can be detected in glass and used for forensic comparisons.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.7 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organiz...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The identification of an ignitable liquid residue in samples from a fire scene can support the field investigator’s opinion regarding the origin, fuel load, and incendiary nature of the fire.  
4.1.1 The identification of an ignitable liquid residue in a fire scene does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that a fire was incendiary in nature. Further investigation can reveal a legitimate reason for the presence of ignitable liquid residues.  
4.1.2 Because of the volatility of ignitable liquids and variations in sampling techniques, the absence of detectable quantities of ignitable liquid residues does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that ignitable liquids were not present at the fire scene.  
4.2 Materials normally found in a building, upon exposure to the heat of a fire, will form pyrolysis and combustion products. Extracted ion profiling and identification of specific compounds or classes of compounds described herein can facilitate the identification of an ignitable liquid in the extract by reducing interference by components generated as products of pyrolysis.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the identification of residues of ignitable liquids in extracts from fire debris samples. Extraction procedures are described in the referenced documents.  
1.2 Although this test method is suitable for all samples, it is especially appropriate for extracts that contain high background levels of substrate materials or pyrolysis and combustion products. This test method is also suitable for the identification of single compounds, simple mixtures, or non-petroleum based ignitable liquids.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This practice cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This practice is useful for preparing extracts from fire debris for later analysis by gas chromatography mass spectrometry.  
4.2 This is a very sensitive separation procedure, capable of isolating quantities smaller than 1/10 μL of ignitable liquid residue from a sample.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes the procedure for separation of small quantities of ignitable liquid residues from samples of fire debris using an adsorbent material to extract the residue from the static headspace above the sample, then eluting the adsorbent with a solvent.  
1.2 While this practice is suitable for successfully extracting ignitable liquid residues over the entire range of concentration, the headspace concentration methods are best used when a high level of sensitivity is required due to a very low concentration of ignitable liquid residues in the sample.  
1.2.1 Unlike other methods of separation and concentration, this practice is essentially nondestructive.  
1.3 Alternate separation and concentration procedures are listed in the referenced documents (see Practices E1386, E1388, E1413, and E2154).  
1.4 This practice does not replace knowledge, skill, ability, experience, education, or training and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This technique involves a chemical-precipitation reaction between cocaine and the precipitating reagent. The habit and the aggregation of the crystals formed could be used to distinguish cocaine from other drugs (6).  
5.2 This technique can be utilized on cocaine present in either the salt or free base form.  
5.3 This technique does not distinguish between the salt and free base forms.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures applicable to the analysis of cocaine using multiple microcrystal tests (1-6).2  
1.2 These procedures are applicable to cocaine, which is present in solid form or an injectable liquid form. They are not typically applicable to the analysis of cocaine in biological samples.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 These procedures could generate observations indicating a positive test for cocaine or its enantiomers which could be incorporated into the analytical scheme as defined by the laboratory.  
1.5 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience (see Practice E2326) and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This technique involves a chemical-precipitation reaction between methamphetamine or amphetamine and the precipitating reagent. The habit and the aggregation of the crystals formed could be used to distinguish methamphetamine and amphetamine from other drugs, as well as from each other.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures applicable to the analysis of methamphetamine and amphetamine using microcrystal tests (1-6).2  
1.2 These procedures are applicable to methamphetamine and amphetamine, which are present in solid dosage form or an injectable liquid form. These procedures are not typically applicable to the analysis of methamphetamine and amphetamine in biological samples.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 These procedures could generate observations indicating a positive test for methamphetamine or amphetamine which could be incorporated into the analytical scheme as defined by the laboratory.  
1.5 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience (see Practice E2326) and is to be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This technique involves a chemical-precipitation reaction between the phencyclidine or its analogues and the precipitating reagent. The habit and the aggregation of the crystals formed could be used to distinguish phencyclidine or its analogues from other drugs.  
5.2 This technique can be utilized on phencyclidine or its analogues present in either the salt or free base form.  
5.3 This technique does not distinguish between salt and free base forms.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures applicable to the analysis of phencyclidine and its analogues using microcrystal tests (1-8).2  
1.2 These procedures are applicable to phencyclidine and its analogues which are present in solid form or in a liquid form. They are not typically applicable to the analysis of phencyclidine and its analogues in biological samples.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 These procedures could generate observations indicating a positive test for phencyclidine and its analogues which could be incorporated into the analytical scheme as defined by the laboratory.  
1.5 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience (see Practice E2326) and is to be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is useful for accurate measurement of  from a wide variety of glass samples, whose  ranges from 1.48–1.55.  
4.2 It should be recognized that measurement of surface fragments, especially from float glass samples, can result in refractive index values which are different than the refractive index values of fragments from the interior of (for example, bulk) the same broken glass source (5).  
4.3 The precision of this test method shall be established in each laboratory that employs it as part of the validation protocol (see Section 9).  
4.4 It should be recognized that this technique measures the refractive index of the glass at the match point temperature, which will be higher than ambient temperature, and thus, may give different  values from those obtained by other methods, which measure the refractive index at room temperature.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for measuring and comparing the refractive index (η) at a fixed wavelength (λ) and temperature (T) ( ) of glass from known sources to recovered fragments from a questioned source.  
1.2 This test method does not include the measurement of optical dispersion or the measurement of refractive index ( ) at any other wavelength other than the Sodium D line ( ). This method employs a narrow band pass filter at 589 nm, but other filters could be employed using the described method, allowing the  to be determined at other wavelengths, and therefore, also allowing for the dispersion value to be calculated.  
1.3 Alternative methods for the determination of  are listed in Refs (1-5).2  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 An analyst should be knowledgeable, through established laboratory training, of clandestine drug laboratory synthetic routes and the techniques used in the analysis of related samples. This acquired knowledge of clandestine drug laboratory samples assists the analyst in choosing the best analytical scheme to identify reagents, precursors, intermediates, and final products.  
4.2 The qualitative and quantitative analyses of clandestine drug laboratory evidence can require different approaches relative to routine seized drug analyses. Analysts shall understand the limitations of the procedures used in their qualitative and quantitative analyses. These include such factors as method selectivity, uncertainty, and the basis for inferences from a sample(s) to a population.  
4.3 Laboratory management shall ensure that clandestine drug laboratory synthesis and analysis training be provided through relevant procedures, literature, and practical experience. Practical experience typically includes production, sampling and analysis of clandestine drug laboratory training samples.  
4.4 Laboratory management shall ensure that chemical safety and hygiene plans address and mitigate hazards associated with clandestine drug laboratory evidence.  
4.5 It does not address scene attendance or scene processing.  
4.6 Laboratory management shall consider customer/local requirements which influence the application of these recommendations.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard is intended to be used in conjunction with the general requirements for the analysis of seized drugs (Practices E2326, E2327, E2329, and E2549; Guides E2548 and E2329). This standard provides guidance on the chemical analysis of items and samples related to suspected clandestine drug laboratories. This standard provides general guidance for the analysis of clandestine drug laboratory evidence and is not a substitute for detailed and validated laboratory policies and technical procedures.  
1.2 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience (see Practice E2326) and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is useful for preparing extracts from fire debris for subsequent qualitative analysis by gas chromatography mass spectrometry, see Test Method E1618.  
5.2 The sensitivity of this practice is such that a sample consisting of a laboratory tissue onto which as little as 0.1 µL of ignitable liquid has been deposited, in an otherwise empty sample container, will result in an extract that is sufficient for identification and classification using Test Method E1618  (1).  
5.2.1 Recovery from fire debris samples will vary, depending on factors including debris temperature, adsorbent temperature, container size, adsorptive material, headspace volume, sampling time and flow rate, and adsorptive competition from the sample matrix (2).  
5.3 The principal concepts of dynamic headspace concentration are similar to those of static headspace concentration (Practice E3189). The dynamic headspace concentration technique can be more sensitive than the static headspace concentration technique. However, sample containers subjected to dynamic headspace concentration could be unsuitable for re-sampling.  
5.3.1 Dynamic headspace concentration alters the original composition of the test sample because a portion of the original headspace from the sample container is removed and exchanged with dry inert gas or air. A portion of the concentrated headspace sample should be preserved for potential future analysis, if possible and if required, in accordance with Practice E2451.  
5.4 Common solid adsorbent/desorption procedure combinations in use are activated carbon/solvent elution, and Tenax4 TA/thermal desorption.  
5.5 Solid adsorbent/desorption procedure combinations not specifically described in this standard can be used as long as the practice has been validated as outlined in Section 11.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes the procedure for separation of ignitable liquid residues from fire debris samples using dynamic headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube, with subsequent solvent elution or thermal desorption.  
1.2 Dynamic headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube takes place from a closed, rigid sample container (typically a metal can), using a source of dry inert gas or a vacuum system.  
1.3 Both positive and negative applied pressure systems for dynamic headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube are illustrated and described.  
1.4 This practice is suitable for preparing extracts from fire debris samples containing a range of volumes (µL to mL) of ignitable liquid residues, with sufficient recovery for subsequent qualitative analysis (1).2  
1.5 Alternative headspace concentration methods are listed in Section 2 (see Practices E1388, E1412, E3189, and E2154).  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.7 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience (Practice E2917) and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is useful for preparing extracts from fire debris for subsequent qualitative analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, see Test Method E1618.  
5.2 This practice is capable of removing a portion of the headspace vapors, containing quantities smaller than 0.1 µL/L of ignitable liquid residues, from a sample container and concentrating the ignitable liquid residues onto an adsorbent medium (1).  
5.2.1 Recovery from fire debris samples will vary, depending on factors including debris temperature, adsorbent temperature, container size, adsorptive material, headspace volume, sampling volume or sampling time and flow rate, and adsorptive competition from the sample matrix (2).  
5.3 The principal concepts of static headspace concentration are similar to those of static headspace (Practice E1388) and dynamic headspace concentration (Practice E1413). The static headspace concentration technique can be more sensitive than the static headspace technique and less sensitive than the dynamic. The static techniques do however leave the sample in a condition suitable for resampling, as only a portion, typically less than 10 %, of the headspace is withdrawn from a sample container (3).  
5.3.1 Re-sampling and analysis is possible with static headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube, because only a portion of the headspace from the container is removed (3). Taking multiple headspace samples will continuously reduce the concentration of ignitable liquid vapors present, which can result in a change in relative composition of components and eventually non-recovery when the questioned headspace originally contained very low quantities of ignitable liquid residues (less than 0.1 µL/L).  
5.4 Common solid adsorbent/desorption procedure combinations in use are activated carbon/solvent elution and Tenax4 TA/thermal desorption.  
5.5 Solid adsorbent/desorption procedures not specifically described in this standard can be used as long as the practice has...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes the procedure for separation of ignitable liquid residues from fire debris samples using static headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube, for subsequent solvent elution or thermal desorption.  
1.2 Static headspace concentration onto an adsorbent tube involves removal of a headspace extract from a sample container (typically a jar, can, or bag), through a small hole punctured in the container, using a syringe or pump.  
1.3 Static headspace concentration systems for adsorption onto an adsorbent tube are illustrated and described.  
1.4 This practice is suitable for preparing extracts from fire debris samples containing a range of volumes (µL to mL) of ignitable liquid residues, with sufficient recovery for subsequent qualitative analysis (1).2  
1.5 Alternative headspace concentration methods are listed in Section 2 (see Practices E1388, E1412, E1413, and E2154).  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.7 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through education, training, and experience (Practice E2917) and is to be used in conjunction with professional judgment by individuals with such discipline-specific knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method is useful when oils and fats are suspected as an ignition source or a fuel source in a fire.  
4.1.1 The identification of oil and fat residues in samples from a fire scene can support the field investigator’s opinion regarding the origin and cause of the fire.  
4.1.2 The positive identification of fatty acid(s) does not necessarily mean that the fire was caused by self heating.  
4.2 This test method specifically identifies fatty acid derivatives. Oils and fats are comprised primarily of triglycerides (which are fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone), and some free fatty acids. Free fatty acids and triglycerides are not easily analyzed by the traditional ignitable liquid extraction techniques. Solvent extraction and derivatization to FAME will enable identification by GC-MS.  
4.2.1 The identification of an individual fatty acid in fire debris samples does not confirm the presence of oils or fats; however, there are times when large quantities of the oil or fat may be extracted. In such cases a more positive identification can be made.  
4.2.2 Oils and fats containing fatty acids with no double bonds will generally have no tendency to self-heat. With increasing unsaturation (1, 2, and 3 double bonds), the tendency to self-heat also increases, such that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as C18:3, have a high tendency to self-heat.  
4.3 This test method is a sensitive separation technique and can detect quantities as small as 3 µL of oil or fat residue in an extract from a debris sample.  
4.4 This test method shall be performed after all required traditional testing for ignitable liquid residues is completed.  
4.5 This test method extracts liquids and residues from porous and nonporous materials of various sizes.  
4.6 This test method can be hampered by coincident extraction of interfering compounds present in the fire debris samples.  
4.7 This is a destructive technique and whenever possible the entire sample should...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the extraction, derivatization, and identification of fatty acids indicative of vegetable oils and fats in fire debris and liquid samples. This procedure will also extract animal oils and fats, as these are similar in chemical composition to vegetable oils and fats. Herein, the phrase “oils and fats” will be used to refer to both animal and vegetable derived oils and fats.  
1.2 This test method is suitable for successfully extracting oil and fat residues having 8 to 24 carbon atoms.  
1.3 The identification of a specific type of oil (for example, olive, corn, linseed) requires a quantitative analysis of the fatty acid esters and is beyond the scope of this test method.  
1.4 This test method cannot replace the requisite knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
6.1 This guide is designed to assist the forensic paint examiner in selecting and organizing an analytical scheme for identifying and comparing paints and coatings. The size and condition of the sample(s) will influence the selected analytical scheme.
SCOPE
1.1 Forensic paint analyses and comparisons are typically distinguished by sample size that precludes the application of many standard industrial paint analysis procedures or protocols. The forensic paint examiner must address concerns such as the issues of a case or investigation, sample size, complexity and condition, environmental effects, and collection methods. These factors require that the forensic paint examiner choose test methods, sample preparation schemes, test sequence, and degree of sample alteration and consumption that are suitable to each specific case.  
1.2 This guide is intended as an introduction to standard guides for forensic examination of paints and coatings. It is intended to assist individuals who conduct forensic paint analyses in their evaluation, selection, and application of tests that can be of value to their investigations. This guide describes methods to develop discriminatory information using an efficient and reasonable order of testing. The need for validated methods and quality assurance guidelines is also addressed. This document is not intended as a detailed methods description or rigid scheme for the analysis and comparison of paints, but as a guide to the strengths and limitations of each analytical method. The goal is to provide a consistent approach to forensic paint analysis.  
1.3 This guide cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 Some of the methods discussed in this guide involve the use of dangerous chemicals, temperatures, and radiation sources. This guide does not purport to address the possible safety hazards or precautions associated with its application. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 FTIR spectroscopy can be employed for the classification of paint binder types and pigments as well as for the comparison of spectra from known and questioned coatings. When used for comparison purposes, the goal of the forensic examiner is to determine whether any meaningful differences exist between the known and questioned samples.  
5.2 This guide is designed to assist an examiner in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods and instrumental parameters for the analysis, comparison or identification of paint binders and pigments.  
5.3 It is not the intent of this guide to present comprehensive theories and methods of FTIR spectroscopy. It is necessary that the examiner have an understanding of FTIR and general concepts of specimen preparation prior to using this guide. This information is available from manufacturers’ reference materials, training courses, and references such as: Forensic Applications of Infrared Spectroscopy (Suzuki, 1993) (4),  Infrared Microspectroscopy of Forensic Paint Evidence (Ryland, 1995) (5),  Use of Infrared Spectroscopy for the Characterization of Paint Fragments (Beveridge, 2001) (6), and  An Infrared Spectroscopy Atlas for the Coatings Industry (2).
SCOPE
1.1 This guide applies to the forensic IR analysis of paints and coatings and is intended to supplement information presented in the Forensic Paint Analysis and Comparison Guidelines (1)2 written by Scientific Working Group on Materials Analysis (SWGMAT). This guideline is limited to the discussion of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) instruments and provides information on FTIR instrument setup, performance assessment, sample preparation, analysis and data interpretation. It is intended to provide an understanding of the requirements, benefits, limitations and proper use of IR accessories and sampling methods available for use by forensic paint examiners. The following accessory techniques will be discussed: FTIR microspectroscopy (transmission and reflectance), diamond cell and attenuated total reflectance. The particular methods employed by each examiner or laboratory, or both, are dependent upon available equipment, examiner training, specimen size or suitability, and purpose of examination. This guideline does not cover the theoretical aspects of many of the topics presented. These can be found in texts such as An Infrared Spectroscopy Atlas for the Coatings Industry (Federation of Societies for Coatings, 1991) (2) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (Griffiths and de Haseth, 1986) (3).  
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 These are minimum requirements applicable to the identification of seized drugs.  
4.1.1 As these are minimum requirements, it should be recognized that they may not be sufficient for the identification of all drugs in all circumstances. Within these requirements, it is the responsibility of the individual laboratory’s management to determine which combination of analytical techniques best satisfies the requirements of its jurisdiction.4  
4.2 Correct identification of a drug or chemical depends on the competence of the analyst and the use of an analytical scheme that incorporates validated methods (see Practice E2549). It is expected that in the absence of unforeseen error, an appropriate analytical scheme effectively results in reliable and scientifically supported identifications5 (see Practice E2764).  
4.3 This practice requires the laboratory’s analytical scheme to incorporate techniques that operate on significantly different principles. It does not discourage the use of any particular method within an analytical scheme. Actual practices followed by a particular laboratory may depend upon jurisdictional requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes minimum criteria for the qualitative analysis (identification) of seized drugs.  
1.2 Listed are a number of analytical techniques for the identification of seized drugs. These techniques are grouped on the basis of their discriminating power. Analytical schemes based on these groupings are described.  
1.3 Additional information is found in Guides E1968, E1969, E2125, and E2548 and Practices E2326, E2327, E2549, and E2764.  
1.4 This standard should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment, and cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method establishes a procedure for the analysis and identification of organic components of smokeless powder by GC-MS and FTIR.  
5.2 FTIR is used in the analysis of nitrocellulose, which is a major component of all smokeless powders, and nitroguanidine in triple-base powders.  
5.3 GC-MS is used in the analysis of other organic compounds in smokeless powders, such as energetics, stabilizers, plasticizers, and deterrents.  
5.4 This test method is used concurrently with E2998 for the analysis of smokeless powders when whole or partial grains are present.  
5.5 GC-MS and FTIR are two techniques used in the analysis of smokeless powders. Additional techniques are available that are acceptable for use in the analysis and identification of organic components of smokeless powders, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, capillary electrophoresis, and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method describes the analysis of organic components in smokeless powders by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (1-6)2 and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.  
1.2 This test method is suited for analyzing samples comprised of visible grains (whole or partial) of smokeless powder.  
1.3 Analysis of post-blast debris and items containing gunshot residue when visible grains of smokeless powder are not present is beyond the scope of this test method.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.5 This test method involves handling of low explosives and potentially other energetic materials. It is strongly suggested that an analyst be trained in the storage and safe handling of energetic materials and be familiar with the properties and hazards of explosives.  
1.6 This test method cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide is designed to assist an examiner in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods for the analysis, comparison, and identification of pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes. If no meaningful differences are noted between the known and unknown samples regarding physical appearance or measurements, then IR spectroscopy should be the next step in the analytical scheme.  
5.2 Infrared spectroscopy can provide molecular information regarding major organic and inorganic components. For various reasons, components in lesser amounts are typically more difficult to identify unequivocally. Reasons for this include interference of the absorption bands of the major components with the less intense bands of minor components and sensitivity issues whereby the minor components are present at concentrations below the detection limits of the instrument.  
5.3 Infrared spectroscopy can be used to obtain spectra for elucidation of the chemical composition of a tape and for comparison of two or more tape samples. When used for spectral comparisons, the objective is to determine whether any meaningful differences exist between the samples.
SCOPE
1.1 Infrared spectroscopy (IR) is a valuable method for the identification and comparison of pressure sensitive tapes (1-20).2 This guide provides basic recommendations and information about infrared spectrometers and accessories, with an emphasis on sampling techniques specific to pressure sensitive tape examinations. The particular method(s) employed by each examiner or laboratory will depend upon available equipment, examiner training, sample suitability, and sample size.  
1.2 This guide is intended for examiners with a basic knowledge of the theory and proficiency in the use of infrared spectroscopy as well as experience in the handling and forensic examination of pressure sensitive tapes. Further, this guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme (21-23).  
1.3 Disclaimer: This guide offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This standard cannot replace knowledge, skill, or the ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 µ-XRF provides a means of simultaneously detecting major, minor, and trace elemental constituents in small glass fragments such as those frequently examined in forensic case work. It can be used at any point in the analytical scheme without concern for changing sample shape or sample properties, such as RI, due to its totally nondestructive nature.  
4.2 Limits of detection (LOD) are dependent on several factors, including instrument configuration and operating parameters, sample thickness, and atomic number of the individual elements. Typical LODs range from parts per million (µgg-1) to percent (%).  
4.3 µ-XRF provides simultaneous qualitative analysis for elements having an atomic number of eleven or greater. This multi-element capability permits detection of elements typically present in glass such as magnesium (Mg), silicon (Si), aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), strontium (Sr), and zirconium (Zr), as well as other elements that may be detectable in some glass by µ-XRF (for example, molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se), or erbium (Er)) without the need for a predetermined elemental menu.  
4.4 µ-XRF comparison of glass fragments provides additional discrimination power beyond that of RI or density comparisons, or both, alone.  
4.5 The method precision should be established in each laboratory for the specific conditions and instrumentation in that laboratory.  
4.6 When using small fragments having varying surface geometries and thicknesses, precision deteriorates due to take-off-angle and critical depth effects. Flat fragments with thickness greater than 1.5 mm do not suffer from these constraints, but are not always available as questioned specimens received in casework. As a consequence of the deterioration in precision for small fragments and the lack of appropriate calibration standards, quantitative analysis by µ-XRF is not typically used.  
4.7 Appropriate sampling techniques should be used to account for natural h...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method is for the determination of major, minor, and trace elements present in glass fragments. The elemental composition of a glass fragment can be measured through the use of µ-XRF analysis for comparisons of glass.  
1.2 This test method covers the application of µ-XRF using mono- and poly- capillary optics, and an energy dispersive X-ray detector (EDS).  
1.3 This test method does not replace knowledge, skill, ability, experience, education, or training and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.  
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice establishes guidelines for the characterization of smokeless powder which can be used as an explosive for improvised explosive devices or as a propellant, such as for small arms ammunition and for military ordnance.  
5.2 This practice establishes the minimum criteria necessary to classify smokeless powders.  
5.3 The morphology of smokeless powder is a distinct characteristic used for classification and identification purposes.  
5.4 The identification of a questioned sample as smokeless powder (that is, it is a propellant or low explosive) does not require the identification of chemical components of a smokeless powder other than nitrocellulose.  
5.5 Identification of organic compounds associated with smokeless powders is a requirement to classify a smokeless powder sample as single-base, double-base, or triple-base.  
5.6 Additional analytical techniques may be available that are not mentioned within this document that are acceptable for the characterization and analysis of smokeless powders.  
5.7 The requirements to associate a questioned smokeless powder to a unique smokeless powder product by brand name or intercomparison of two or more questioned powders are beyond the scope of this document (13-15).  
5.8 The identification of smokeless powder residue in the absence of whole or partial grains is beyond the scope of this document.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures for characterization and analysis of smokeless powders recovered from explosives incidents (1, 2),2 materials or objects containing gunshot residue (3) when visible grains are present, or bulk samples of powder.  
1.2 Smokeless powder is characterized by shape, color, texture, manufacturing toolmarks, markers, dimensional measurements, and chemical composition (4-6).  
1.3 Smokeless powder is an energetic material classified as a low explosive or propellant. Smokeless powder can be further classified as single-base, double-base, or triple-base.  
1.4 Analysis of post-blast debris and items containing gunshot residue when visible grains of smokeless powder are not present is beyond the scope of this practice.  
1.5 This practice will provide guidelines for the analysis of organic components of smokeless powders using various instrumental techniques, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.  
1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.7 This standard involves handling of low explosives and potentially other energetic materials. It is strongly suggested that an analyst be trained in the storage and safe handling of energetic materials and be familiar with the properties and hazards of explosives.  
1.8 This standard cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 This guide provides information for the sampling of seized-drug submissions.  
3.2 The principal purpose of sampling in the context of this guide is to answer relevant questions about a population by examination of a portion of the population. For example:    
What is the net weight of the population?  
What portion of the units of a population can be said to contain a given drug at a given level of confidence?  
3.3 By developing a sampling strategy and implementing appropriate sampling schemes, as illustrated in Fig. 1, a laboratory will minimize the total number of required analytical determinations, while ensuring that all relevant legal and scientific requirements are met.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers minimum considerations for sampling of seized drugs for qualitative and quantitative analysis.  
1.2 This guide cannot replace knowledge, skill, or ability acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method specifically identifies fatty acid methyl esters and petroleum distillates found in biodiesel products. Derivatization is not necessary to identify FAMEs.  
4.1.1 This test method is useful when biodiesel products are suspected as a fuel source in a fire or a fuel product case and the identification of the “bio” portion of the fuel is of interest.  
4.1.2 The identification of biodiesel in samples from a fire scene can support the field investigator’s opinion regarding the origin and cause of the fire or provide investigative leads.  
4.1.3 The identification of biodiesel in a sample of fuel from a dispensing container or fuel tank can support the field investigator’s findings in a fuel product tampering investigation.  
4.2 FAMEs can be identified in debris samples using headspace extraction techniques and GC-MS.  
4.2.1 Solvent extraction may be required to further identify and characterize the FAME content in biodiesel.  
4.2.2 The presence of FAMEs and petroleum diesel is a strong indication of a biodiesel product, as FAMEs are not naturally occurring.  
4.3 Biodiesel products can be identified in liquid samples by GC-MS after appropriate solvent dilution or extraction.  
4.4 Biodiesel is available in different blends, where B100 is 100 % biodiesel (typically 100 % transesterified vegetable oils or recycled restaurant greases) and B2 is 2 % biodiesel and 98 % petroleum diesel, with variations in between.  
4.5 This test method is a sensitive technique and can detect quantities as small as 7 μL of biodiesel residue in an extract from a debris sample.  
4.6 This test method can be hampered by coincident extraction of interfering compounds present in the debris samples.  
4.7 Depending on the extraction method used, this could be a destructive technique and whenever possible the entire sample should not be used for the procedure. Solvent extracted portions of the sample are not suitable for resampling.  
4.8 Alternate methods of e...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the analysis and identification of the fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) and petroleum distillate components of biodiesel products.  
1.2 This test method is suitable for identifying the components of biodiesel products in extracts of debris samples or in liquid samples.  
1.3 The identification of a specific source of the FAMEs or the proportion of the blend of biodiesel requires additional analysis and is beyond the scope of this test method.  
1.4 This test method cannot replace the requisite knowledge, skills, or abilities acquired through appropriate education, training, and experience and should be used in conjunction with sound professional judgment.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This guide is designed to assist an examiner in the selection of appropriate sample preparation methods for the analysis, comparison, and identification of fibers using IR spectroscopy. IR spectroscopy can provide additional compositional information than is obtained using polarized light microscopy alone. The extent to which IR spectral comparison is conducted will vary with specific sample and case evaluations.  
5.2 IR analysis should follow visible and fluorescence comparison microscopy, polarized light microscopy, and ultraviolet (UV)/visible spectroscopy. If no meaningful differences are noted between the known and unknown samples in optical properties, then proceed to IR spectroscopy as the next step in the analytical scheme, as applicable.  
Note 1: IR analysis generally follows the aforementioned techniques since sample preparation (for example, flattening) irreversibly changes fiber morphology.  
5.3 IR spectroscopy should be conducted before dye extraction for chromatography due to the semi-destructive nature of the extraction technique. Because of the large number of sub-generic classes, forensic examination of acrylic and modacrylic fibers is likely to benefit significantly from IR spectral analysis (5). Useful distinctions between subtypes of nylon and polyester fibers can also be made by IR spectroscopy.  
5.4 IR spectroscopy can provide molecular information regarding major organic and inorganic components. Components in lesser amounts are typically more difficult to identify. Reasons for this include interference of the absorption bands of the major components with the less-intense bands of minor components, and sensitivity issues whereby the minor components are present at concentrations below the detection limits of the instrument.  
5.5 Fiber samples are prepared and mounted for microscopical IR analysis by a variety of techniques. IR spectra of fibers are obtained using an IR spectrometer coupled with an IR microscope, ATR, or diamond c...
SCOPE
1.1 Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is a valuable method of fiber polymer identification and comparison in forensic examinations. The use of IR microscopes, coupled with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers, has greatly simplified the IR analysis of single fibers, thus making the technique feasible for routine use in the forensic laboratory. This guide provides basic recommendations and information about IR spectrometers and accessories, with an emphasis on sampling techniques specific to fiber examinations. The particular method(s) employed by each examiner or laboratory will depend upon available equipment, examiner training, sample suitability, and sample size.  
1.2 This guide is intended for examiners with a basic knowledge of the theory and practice of IR spectroscopy, as well as experience in the handling and forensic examination of fibers. In addition, this guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme.  
1.3 If polymer identification is not readily apparent from optical data alone, an additional method of analysis, such as microchemical tests, melting point, IR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, or pyrolysis gas chromatography, should be used. An advantage of IR spectroscopy is that the instrumentation is readily available in most forensic laboratories and the technique is minimally destructive.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.5 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practice E2917), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practice...