Forensic Analysis of Fire Debris and Explosives

Description

This text provides training on the fundamental tools and methodologies used in active forensic laboratories for the complicated analysis of fire debris and explosives evidence. It is intended to serve as a gateway for students and transitioning forensic science or chemistry professionals. The book is divided between the two disciplines of fire debris and explosives, with a final pair of chapters devoted to the interplay between the two disciplines and with other disciplines, such as DNA and fingerprint analysis. It brings together a multi-national group of technical experts, ranging from academic researchers to active practitioners, including members of some of the premier forensic agencies of the world. Readers will gain knowledge of practical methods of analysis and will develop a strong foundation for laboratory work in forensic chemistry. End-of-chapter questions based on relevant topics and real-world data provide a realistic arena for learners to test newly-acquired techniques. Front Matter ....Pages i-viii An Introduction to Instrumentation Used in Fire Debris and Explosive Analysis (Kenyon Evans-Nguyen)....Pages 1-43 Introduction to Fire Debris Analysis (Jamie Baerncopf, Sherrie Thomas)....Pages 45-74 Background Interference in Fire Debris Analysis (P. Mark L. Sandercock)....Pages 75-104 Vegetable Oil, Biodiesel and Ethanol Alternative Fuels (Douglas Byron)....Pages 105-133 Variation Within Ignitable Liquid Classes (Mary R. Williams, Susan Seebode Hetzel)....Pages 135-174 Microbial Degradation of Ignitable Liquids (Katherine Hutches)....Pages 175-192 Introduction to the Forensic Analysis of Intact Explosives (H. E. Hutson, E. McGee)....Pages 193-225 Explosive Analysis: Introduction to Post-Blast Analysis (B. M. Crane Calhoun, R. F. Mothershead II)....Pages 227-255 Explosive Device Componentry and Evaluation (Kirk Yeager, John Jermain)....Pages 257-283 Bridging Explosives and Fire Debris Analyses (Michelle Evans)....Pages 285-304 Interacting with Other Disciplines (Carl E. Chasteen)....Pages 305-336 Back Matter ....Pages 337-356