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Applications of Isotopes in Forensic Science
1Revvity, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA.
Journal of Labelled Compounds & Radiopharmaceuticals
|March 28, 2025
Summary
Isotopes offer powerful forensic tools, aiding investigations from wildlife trafficking to counterfeit medicines. This review explores isotope applications in various forensic science fields, including nuclear forensics and AI.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- The concept of isotopes emerged in the early 20th century, supported by significant experimental findings.
- Isotope analysis has become a crucial technique in various scientific disciplines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse applications of isotopes in forensic science.
- To highlight the role of isotope ratio measurement in forensic investigations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on isotope applications in forensics.
- Discussion of isotope ratio measurement techniques and variations.
Main Results:
- Isotopes are applicable in forensic anthropology, wildlife trafficking, explosives, illicit drugs, and counterfeit medicines.
- Isotope analysis is valuable for food authentication and nuclear forensics.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a tool in isotope-based forensic analysis.
Conclusions:
- Isotope analysis provides a versatile and powerful methodology for forensic investigations.
- Future research directions include further integration of AI and advanced analytical techniques.
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