Forensic Analysis of Ink, Arson, Explosive, and Controlled-Substance Samples Using a Revolutionary Mass Spectrometry Method

The goal of this project is to complete a computer-searchable library of DART (Direct Analysis in Real Time) spectra of inks. DART has been shown to be superior to traditional methods for ink analysis in its ability to discriminate among inks, as well as in its speed of analysis and in the minimum effect on the document under analysis. The searchable library, used in conjunction with the DART assay, will result in an improved tool for analysis of inks in questioned documents. This method will result in a reduction in examination time, which will in turn reduce backlogs of untested evidence.

nca/ncf