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In forensic investigations, every trace of evidence matters. From organic and inorganic materials at crime scenes to substances involved in fraud or drug-related crimes, even the tiniest particles can unlock critical information. To analyze and differentiate these traces accurately, forensic sciences rely on sensitive and robust analytical tools. Among them, Raman microscopy is a valuable tool, offering detailed chemical and structural insights into virtually any sample—without requiring extensive preparation. Its non-contact, non-invasive nature preserves the integrity of evidence, minimizing also the risk of contamination. Examples of Raman microscopy’s value in forensic applications include identifying counterfeit items through the analysis of materials like paints, detecting traces of drugs, explosives, and other illicit substances, and examining microscopic traces from crime scenes, such as automotive paints and binders from collision sites.
WITec confocal Raman microscopes provide the precision essential for forensic analyses, combining exceptional resolution, speed, and sensitivity to deliver reliable results from critical evidence. With unparalleled versatility, they are perfectly equipped to meet your needs today and evolve with your requirements in the future.
Our confocal Raman microscopes enable the sensitive detection of even smallest amounts of substances within a sample. This example visualizes the detection of explosive residues on a fingerprint left on glass, indicating that the person had recently come into contact with such material. Additionally, the fluorescence signal from the sample was utilized to outline the fingerprint, aiding in the identification of the person.
In forensic investigations of document forgery, Raman imaging aids in characterizing the composition of paper, identifying different types of ink, and uncovering later modifications. In this first example, Raman imaging was used to distinguish between printer ink and ballpoint pen ink. A second example shows a Raman depth scan resolving the order of ballpoint pen writing on paper.
For more details on paper and ink analyses with Raman see our Application Note Paper.
TrueMatch is a powerful Raman database manager designed to streamline the identification of individual components, making forensic sample analysis faster and more efficient. It provides access to established libraries such as ST Japan databases, while also allowing you to import publicly available databases or to create your own custom spectral catalog.
Discover TrueMatchDoes your institution enforce strict data safety regulations and require controlled access to instrument functionalities and data for multiple users? If so, the Multi-user Management feature of our Raman Suite Software offers the matching solution for you.
Combine Raman with additional imaging techniques and gain even deeper insights from your sample—all within a single instrument.
If you'd like to learn more about the possibilities of Raman imaging for forensics applications, one of our specialists will be happy to discuss them with you.
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