Journal Published Online: 01 March 2000
Volume 45, Issue 2

Analysis of Primer Residue from Lead Free Ammunition by X-Ray Microfluorescence

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

In forensic science, the analysis of gunshot residues was traditionally done by the detection of lead (Pb), antimony (Sb) and barium (Ba) usually found in a primer. However, the recent development of lead-free ammunition represents a new challenge for ballistic specialists. This analysis study gunshot residues from primers and ammunitions in the area surrounding bullet holes, a very important tool to determine the shooting distance. The ammunitions used were 9 mm Luger and .38 spl + p calibers, where lead in the primer was replaced with strontium (Sr) and where the lead bullet was plated with copper (Total Metal Jacket). Gunshot analysis results were obtained using an energy dispersive X-ray microfluorescence spectrometer. The method allows the detection and quantification of strontium residues on the target up to a distance of 45 cm.

Author Information

Charpentier, B
Laboratoire de Sciences judiciaires et de Médecine légale, Ministère de la Sécurité publique Edifice Wilfrid—Derome, Montreal, (Quebec), Canada
Desrochers, C
Laboratoire de Sciences judiciaires et de Médecine légale, Ministère de la Sécurité publique Edifice Wilfrid—Derome, Montreal, (Quebec), Canada
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS14705J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14705J