ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Published Online: 1 January 1998
Page Count: 4

Comparison of Properties of Adhesive Tapes, Tabs, and Liquids Used for the Collection of Gunshot Residue and Other Trace Materials for SEM Analysis
Wrobel, HA
Victoria Forensic Science Centre, Victoria Police Forensic Drive, Victoria

Millar, JJ

Kijek, M
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology,

(Received 31 January 1997; accepted 6 June 1997)

Abstract

The use of adhesive tapes, tabs and liquids is a simple and cost-effective method for sampling gunshot residues and other trace or particulate materials prior to analysis in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The adhesive material is placed directly onto a standard stub (specimen mount) used in scanning electron microscopy. The use of these prepared stubs can decrease sample preparation and collection time as well as reducing the risk of sample loss.

In this study, a number of adhesives are examined for their suitability in the areas of elemental composition, adhesive properties, and adhesive stability under vacuum and an electron beam.

Keywords:
forensic science, criminalistics, adhesive tapes, adhesive lifts, gunshot residue, collection, scanning electron microscopy

Paper ID: JFS16107J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS16107J
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