Review of analytical techniques for arson residues

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Fire Investigation

Background:

• Arson poses significant societal threats, including financial loss, property destruction, and fatalities.
• Reliable, sensitive, and quality-controlled methods are crucial for fire investigators in evidence detection and analysis.
• The field of arson investigation has undergone substantial advancements since the mid-20th century.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of current techniques and practices in fire investigation.
• To highlight the evolution of analytical methods used in fire debris analysis.
• To discuss the impact of technological advancements on arson investigation.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical and contemporary techniques in fire debris analysis.
• Discussion of advancements in ignitable liquid classification due to petroleum industry developments.
• Focus on the transition from traditional methods (e.g., steam distillation, GC-FID) to modern techniques (e.g., mass spectrometry, GC x GC).

Main Results:

• Older techniques like steam/vacuum distillation and gas chromatography with flame ionization detection are largely disfavored.
• Mass spectrometry has revolutionized fire debris analysis, significantly enhancing sensitivity and discrimination capabilities.
• Multi-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC) is emerging as a powerful technique, gaining recognition for its advanced analytical performance.

Conclusions:

• Modern analytical techniques, particularly mass spectrometry and GC x GC, offer superior sensitivity and discrimination for arson investigation.
• The continuous evolution of technology is critical for improving the reliability and effectiveness of fire investigation practices.
• Adoption of advanced methods is essential for competent fire debris analysis in contemporary arson investigations.