Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2025
07:52
A Novel Technique for Raman Analysis of Highly Radioactive Samples Using Any Standard Micro-Raman Spectrometer
Published on: April 12, 2017
12.8K
Raman Spectroscopy for the Time since Deposition Estimation of a Menstrual Bloodstain
Alexis Weber1, Anna Wójtowicz2, Renata Wietecha-Posłuszny2
1Department of Chemistry, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 19, 2024
Summary
Forensic chemistry can now distinguish menstrual from peripheral bloodstains using Raman spectroscopy. This technique also shows promise for estimating the age of menstrual bloodstains, aiding investigations.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Distinguishing between dried peripheral and menstrual bloodstains is challenging in forensic investigations.
- Estimating the time since deposition (TSD) of bloodstains is vital for crime scene reconstruction.
- Current TSD estimation methods are primarily focused on peripheral bloodstains, leaving a gap for menstrual blood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Raman spectroscopy for discriminating between peripheral and menstrual bloodstains.
- To investigate the potential of Raman spectroscopy for determining the TSD of menstrual bloodstains.
- To develop proof-of-concept models for menstrual bloodstain age determination.
Main Methods:
- Raman spectroscopy was employed to analyze dried bloodstain samples.
- Biological samples, including menstrual blood, were analyzed for spectral characteristics.
- Aging patterns of menstrual bloodstains were compared to those of peripheral bloodstains.
- Statistical models were developed for TSD estimation of menstrual blood.
Main Results:
- Raman spectroscopy effectively differentiated between peripheral and menstrual bloodstains.
- Menstrual bloodstains exhibited aging patterns comparable to peripheral bloodstains.
- Proof-of-concept models demonstrated feasibility for TSD estimation of menstrual blood.
Conclusions:
- Raman spectroscopy is a viable tool for distinguishing bloodstain types and estimating the age of menstrual blood.
- The findings suggest the potential for a universal model for bloodstain age determination.
- Further research with diverse donors is necessary before clinical implementation in forensic practice.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Raman Spectroscopy: Overview
360
The underlying principle of Raman spectroscopy is based on the interaction between light and matter, specifically molecules' inelastic scattering of photons. When a monochromatic beam of light, typically from a laser source, interacts with a sample, most scattered light has the same frequency as the incident light. This is known as Rayleigh scattering.
However, a small fraction of the scattered light exhibits a frequency shift due to the exchange of energy between the incident photons and...
However, a small fraction of the scattered light exhibits a frequency shift due to the exchange of energy between the incident photons and...
360
01:26Raman Spectroscopy Instrumentation: Overview
324
A conventional Raman spectrophotometer includes a laser source, a sample holding system, a wavelength selector, and a detector.
The monochromatic laser source, typically using visible or near-infrared radiation, generates a highly focused beam of light. This light interacts with the molecules of the sample, scattering some of the light. Liquid and gaseous samples are usually tested in ordinary glass capillaries, while solids can be analyzed as powders packed in capillaries or as potassium...
The monochromatic laser source, typically using visible or near-infrared radiation, generates a highly focused beam of light. This light interacts with the molecules of the sample, scattering some of the light. Liquid and gaseous samples are usually tested in ordinary glass capillaries, while solids can be analyzed as powders packed in capillaries or as potassium...
324