Raman Spectroscopic Analysis of Organic Gunshot Residue Spanning a Range of Excitation Wavelengths

Presenter Information

Ashley Hull, University at Albany, State University of New YorkFollow
Shelby Khandasammy, University at Albany, State University of New YorkFollow

Panel Name

Forensic Science and Experimental Forensic Anthropology

Location

Lecture Center Concourse

Start Date

3-5-2019 3:00 PM

End Date

3-5-2019 5:00 PM

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Academic Major

Chemistry

Abstract

Gunshot residue (GSR) is a type of trace evidence that can often be recovered at crime scenes. Organic gunshot residue (OGSR) is one of the two major components of GSR. This study investigates the analysis of OGSR, and aims to determine the optimum parameters at which to obtain Raman spectroscopic signals for OGSR particles by varying different excitation wavelengths. In this study, a total of 3 different excitation wavelengths were utilized: 785 nm, 457 nm, and 406 nm. The samples were created by hand selecting OGSR particles and placing them upon a tape substrate. Each of the OGSR particles were cordoned off using a grid formation in order to ensure the clear assignment of spectra to the respective particles.

First Faculty Advisor

Dr. Igor Lednev

First Advisor Email

ilednev@albany.edu

First Advisor Department

Chemistry