|
Forensic Analysis
We are
developing methods to detect the residues that remain after
the use of handguns and pipebombs based on the determination
of the organic additives in gunpowder. Quantitative determination
of such additives as nitroglycerin, diphenylamine and ethylcentralite
in smokeless powder can provide information about the source/identity
of a gunpowder sample. NIST has a handgun test firing facility
that we use to investigate such forensic issues as:
What is the compositional relationship of handgun residues
to the unfired gunpowder?
Comparing
the additive composition of smokeless gunpowder and its
handgun-fired residues. Reardon MR, MacCrehan WA, Rowe WF
. 2000;45(6): 1232-1238.
If the ammunition type is changed, does the residue composition
reflect the most recent shot?
Investigating the effect of changing ammunition on the composition
of organic additives in gunshot residue (OGSR). MacCrehan
WA, Patierno ER, Duewer DL, Reardon MR . 2001;46(1): 57-61.
Given sample cartridges from a box of ammunition, can we
correctly link samples of unknown residues with the correct
box of ammunition?
Associating gunpowder and residues from commercial ammunition
using compositional analysis. MacCrehan WA, Reardon MR,
Duewer DL . 2002;47(2): 260-266.
Do gunpowder residues age with time?
We are
also actively involved in supporting quantitative smokeless
powder measurement quality. In 2000, NIST conducted a interlaboratory
comparison of gunpowder compositional measurements.
A
qualitative comparison of smokeless powder measurements.
MacCrehan WA, Reardon MR . 2002;47(5): 996-1000.
A
quantitative comparison of smokeless powder measurements.
MacCrehan WA, Reardon MR, Duewer DL . 2002;47(6): 1283-1287.
A NIST
Reference Material, Additives in Smokeless Gunpowder, is
currently in development. When it becomes available, the
RM can be used to help forensic laboratories validate their
smokeless powder methods and test their measurement proficiency.
For
questions or further information, contact
us.
|
