Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026
11:49
Enhanced Genetic Analysis of Single Human Bioparticles Recovered by Simplified Micromanipulation from Forensic ‘Touch DNA’ Evidence
Published on: March 9, 2015
16.8K
Searching for biological traces on different materials using a forensic light source and infrared photography
V Sterzik1, S Panzer2, M Apfelbacher2
1Institute of Forensic Medicine, Julius-Maximilians-University, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Würzburg, Germany. vera.sterzik@uni-wuerzburg.de.
International Journal of Legal Medicine
|October 27, 2015
Summary
Detecting biological traces like blood and semen is crucial in criminal investigations. This study advises on the best wavelengths and filters for visualizing various bodily fluids on different colored fabrics using forensic light sources.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Biological traces are vital evidence in criminal investigations.
- Visibility of biological traces is often limited to the naked eye.
- Specialized tools like forensic light sources aid in trace detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine optimal visualization methods for biological traces.
- To identify the best wavelengths and filters for detecting various biological traces.
- To assess performance on diverse fabric types and colors.
Main Methods:
- Examination of blood (undiluted and diluted), semen, urine, saliva, and perspiration.
- Testing on 29 different material types.
- Utilizing forensic light sources and potentially infrared photography.
Main Results:
- Specific wavelengths and filters were identified as superior for certain trace-on-fabric combinations.
- Effectiveness varied based on the type of biological trace and substrate color.
- Data provides guidance for forensic practitioners.
Conclusions:
- Optimized use of forensic light sources enhances biological trace detection.
- Tailoring wavelength and filter selection improves visualization accuracy.
- This research offers practical recommendations for forensic analysis.
