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Updated: May 30, 2026

Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Spectroscopic Identification of Dispersant/Particle Bonding Mechanisms in Functional Inks
Published on: May 8, 2015
Diamond cell Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy transmittance analysis of black toners on questioned documents
A C Almeida Assis1, M F Barbosa, J M Valente Nabais
1Laboratório de Polícia Científica-Polícia Judiciária, Área Fisico-Documental, Especialidade Forense de Documentos, Lisboa, Portugal.
Abstract:
This paper describes the use of a diamond cell Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy methodology for the analysis of black toners commercialised in Portugal. A total of one hundred and thirty-eight samples from eighteen manufacturers were analysed in transmittance mode through a diamond cell. This methodology was considered to be non-destructive as it allows the forensic analysis of the questioned documents while preserving their integrity. The questioned documents' substrate (paper sheets) has no influence on the final result. This technique shows high repeatability and intermediate precision. Spectra were organized in twenty distinct groups based on their main chemical characteristics and relative peak intensity; and a black toner infrared spectral library was developed. Spectral matches between forty-five blind samples and the database resulted in a 100% positive identification to the correct group.
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