Forensic physical fits in the trace evidence discipline: A review.

Physical fit examinations have long played a critical role in forensic science, particularly in the trace evidence, toolmark, and questioned documents disciplines. Specifically, in trace evidence, physical fits arise in various instances such as separated pieces of duct tape, torn textile fragments, and fractured polymeric items to name a few. The case report and research basis for forensic physical fit dates to the late 1700s and varies by material type.

Development and validation of a systematic approach for the quantitative assessment of the quality of duct tape physical fits.

Duct tape is a common type material found at crime scenes such as sexual assaults, murders, kidnappings, and bombings. During the examination of a known and questioned item, a 3D realignment along their edges is known as a physical fit and is often regarded as conclusive evidence that the items were once part of a single object. The conclusion of a fit between edges relies on the examiner's judgment to identify distinctive features across the tape ends.