ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 7

On the Application of Metallurgical Techniques to Forensic Sciences
Rittel, D
Research student, The Graduate School of Applied Science and Technology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem,

Faingold, G
Head., Mechanics and Metallurgy Group, Toolmarks and Materials Laboratory. Division of Criminal Identification, Israel Police Headquarters,

(Received 10 January 1987; accepted 21 April 1987)

Abstract

Metallurgical techniques, such as metallographic examination, are seldom reported as being used in forensic science investigations. In these cases, most findings related to the metal's nature rely on visual and chemical examinations. The potential of applying metallurgical techniques to forensic science investigations is illustrated by means of two case histories. The information needed to establish a link between different pieces of metal is obtained from a metallographic examination of the metal's microstructure which reflects its thermomechanical history. It is shown that this kind of information is unique and cannot be obtained by applying conventional techniques such as chemical analysis. It is therefore concluded that metallurgical techniques can successfully complement other scientific techniques commonly employed in the forensic science context.

Keywords:
criminalistics, forensic science, metallurgical analysis, metals

Paper ID: JFS12452J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12452J
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