Forensic Science Techniques – serie

Chemicalsare a part of daily life and can be found all around us. Many common chemicals when mixed improperly – whether intentionally or not – can pose serious consequences to those who come in contact with them. Written by an author who is an experiencedhazmat-qualifiedfirst responder,forensicspecialist, and educator, Explosives and Chemical Weapons Identification provides the means to quickly identify the type of explosive or chemical weapon at hand upon arriving at the scene.A thorough and accessible reference, this book contains the identification capabilities for 468 different formulations for explosives and chemical weapons. It presents detailed descriptions for each of these formulations by breaking down their materials into five concise categories: common name, synonym, class, ingredients, and use. The materials are also indexed by common name, class, and ingredient. A handy reference packed with critical information and over 350 illustrations and photographs to aid in visual identification, Explosives and Chemical Weapons Identification is an essential resource that every first responder and forensic professional must have within reach every time.

Ongoing advances in arson detection tools and techniques increase the importance of scientific evidence in related court proceedings. In order to assemble an airtight case, investigators and forensic scientists need a resource that assists them in properly conducting the chemical analysis and interpretation of physical evidence found at scenes of suspected arson.Analysis and Interpretation of Fire Scene Evidence introduces the techniques that determine the presence of ignitable liquid residues (ILRs) at fire scenes. It bridges the disciplines of investigation and forensic chemistry, enabling effective communication during critical periods of evidence detection, collection, packaging, and transport.The initial chapters are written from an investigator's perspective, allowing forensic specialists to understand fire dynamics, ignition, heat transfer, and investigations. Later chapters include a comparison of the use of canines versus new detection techniques, and an examination of laboratory facilities, equipment, and procedures that are essential to organizing a new lab or upgrading an existing one.By detailing the methods used to identify potential evidence at the scene of suspected arson fires, this volume also benefits attorneys and judges in preparing for prosecution and defense of arson cases.