Journal Published Online: 01 January 1980
Volume 25, Issue 1

A Study to Determine the Limit of Detectability of Gasoline Vapor from Simulated Arson Residues

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

An experimental study to determine the effect of collection delay and combustion time on successful detection of the aceelerant gasoline was made with samples of wood, carpet with padding, and soil. The maximum time allowed for collection and analysis of samples in which a positive result could be obtained was called the limit of detectability. This limit was found for each sample under study by using various combustion times to 20 min and collection delays to 162 h after the fire was extinguished. The limit of detectability decreased in a regular manner with an increase in combustion time and delay in collection. The relative values for the limit of detectability for different surfaces could prove to be a valid and valuable criterion in the selection and collection of the proper physical evidence at fire scene examinations.

Author Information

Loscalzo, PJ
Cherry Hill High School East, Cherry Hill, N.J.
DeForest, PR
John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, N.Y.
Chao, JM
Burlington County Forensic Science Laboratory, Mt. Holly, N.J.
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS10952J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS10952J