ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF SMALL GLASS FRAGMENTS IN FORENSIC-SCIENCE

The evidential value of small glass particles has been recognized for quite some time. While physical properties such as refractive index and density offer some discrimination of glass samples, they offer little in the way of classification of glass product type. Further, with improved glass manufacturing processes, the range of physical properties seen in modern glass samples is continually decreasing. Many have advocated the use of elemental analysis for the purposes of forensic glass analysis. Various instrumental techniques have been employed to this end, including flameless atomic absorption spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. These more commonly employed methods are discussed with regard to the application to forensic glass analysis. Advantages and disadvantages of each technique are highlighted.