On the spectroscopic examination of printed documents by using a field emission scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FE-SEM-EDS) and chemometric methods: application in forensic science.

The detection of computer-generated document forgeries has always been a challenging task for forensic document examiners (FDE). With the aim to support the examination processes, Schottky field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FE-SEM-EDS) is explored as a recent tool to analyze black toners obtained from laser printers and photocopier machines. Forty samples each from the laser printer and photocopier machines are procured and studied for morphological features, elemental profile, and multivariate analysis.