Analysis of primer gunshot residue particles by laser induced breakdown spectroscopy and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

This study reports novel approaches for the detection of gunshot residues (GSR) from the hands of individuals using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The methods' performance was evaluated using 159 GSR standard and authentic samples. Forty specimens generated from characterized microparticles were used as matrix-matched primer gunshot residue (pGSR) standards to examine the elemental profiles of leaded and lead-free residues, compared to SEM-EDS and solution-ICP-MS.

Development of tailor-made inorganic gunshot residue (IGSR) microparticle standards and characterization with a multi-technique approach.

The forensic analysis of inorganic gunshot residues (IGSR) involves analytical measurements from samples taken from skin and other substrates. The standard practice for IGSR analysis recommends the use of Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to identify the gunshot residues using combined information of the particle's morphology and elemental composition. However, the current deficit on IGSR standard reference materials (SRM) limits the optimization of SEM-EDS for modern, lead-free ammunition and the development of emerging analytical techniques.