Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2025
09:10
Combination of Adhesive-tape-based Sampling and Fluorescence in situ Hybridization for Rapid Detection of Salmonella on Fresh Produce
Published on: October 18, 2010
13.0K
Determining storage for pressure-sensitive tape evidence: A long-term study
1Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Beltsville, Maryland, USA.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|August 9, 2024
Summary
Forensic science research found that FedEx backings, adhesive sheet backings, and polyester transparency sheets are optimal storage materials for pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape. These substrates minimize interference, ensuring accurate analysis of trace evidence.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape is crucial trace evidence in forensic investigations.
- Optimal storage materials for PSA tape are not well-researched, potentially impacting evidence integrity.
- Substrate interference can complicate tape removal and adhesive analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the best storage substrate for PSA tape, minimizing analytical interference.
- To evaluate the long-term effects of various storage materials on PSA tape properties.
- To ensure the reliability of forensic analysis of PSA tape evidence.
Main Methods:
- Long-term study (10 years) involving 80 PSA tape samples on 8 different substrates.
- Evaluation of tape removal ease at multiple time points.
- Analysis of adhesive composition using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (PyGC-MS), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and x-ray fluorescence (XRF).
Main Results:
- FedEx backing was the only substrate showing no adverse effects on tape removal.
- FedEx backings, adhesive sheet backings, and polyester transparency sheets exhibited minimal adverse effects on adhesive composition.
- These substrates proved effective for both short-term and long-term PSA tape storage.
Conclusions:
- FedEx backings, adhesive sheet backings, and polyester transparency sheets are recommended for storing PSA tape in forensic science.
- Proper substrate selection is vital for preserving the integrity of adhesive evidence.
- This research provides critical data for optimizing forensic trace evidence handling protocols.
Related Concept Videos
01:02Sample Handling
93
Transportation of samples from the collection point to the laboratory, as well as storage and preservation techniques, are crucial for maintaining sample integrity and ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
Samples should be transported carefully from collection points to the laboratory. They should be properly sealed and clearly labeled to prevent cross-contamination. To preserve the sample integrity, optimal temperature conditions during transport are essential. This could involve using...
Samples should be transported carefully from collection points to the laboratory. They should be properly sealed and clearly labeled to prevent cross-contamination. To preserve the sample integrity, optimal temperature conditions during transport are essential. This could involve using...
93
01:18Distance Measurements by Taping
31
Tapes are essential in surveying for accurate, durable, and short-distance measurements. Made from lightweight, nylon-coated steel, they offer flexibility and strength for rugged outdoor use. The nylon coating protects against rust and wear, extending the tape's life. Standard lengths, around 30 meters, are marked in meters and millimeters for precision.Surveyors select tapes based on site conditions and accuracy needs. Lightweight, nylon-coated tapes are commonly used for ease of handling and...
31
01:12Taping Over Different Ground Profiles
24
Taping over varying ground profiles requires careful adaptation to achieve accurate measurements. On smooth, level ground with minimal vegetation, the tape can rest directly on the ground. Here, the taping team, typically consisting of a head and a rear tapeman, coordinates their positions with clear communication. The rear tapeman holds the tape at the starting point and guides the head tapeman toward a range pole placed beyond the endpoint, using hand or voice signals to ensure alignment.On...
24
01:20Preparation of Samples for Electron Microscopy
5.4K
To be visualized by an electron microscope, either transmission or scanning, biological samples need to be fixed (stabilized) so the electron beam does not destroy them and dried thoroughly (desiccated/dehydrated) so the vacuum does not affect them. Fixation needs to be done as quickly as possible because the sample properties will start changing as soon as it is removed from its natural environment. For example, in a tissue sample, the oxygen levels begin decreasing, causing an altered...
5.4K
01:40Archival Research
16.0K
Some researchers gain access to large amounts of data without interacting with a single research participant. Instead, they use existing records to answer various research questions. This type of research approach is known as archival research. Archival research relies on looking at past records or data sets to look for interesting patterns or relationships. For example, a researcher might access the academic records of all individuals who enrolled in college within the past ten years and...
16.0K
01:18Errors in Taping
23
Errors in taping arise from multiple factors that can significantly impact measurement accuracy in surveying. Misalignment of the tape, often due to human error, is one primary source. A skilled rear tapeman, using a telescope, can help correct alignment by guiding the head tapeman; however, human limitations still lead to small inaccuracies. These errors may include misplacement of pins or inaccurate tape readings due to common visual confusions, such as mistaking a six for a nine. Such...
23