Analysis of Synthetic Shoe Soles by FTIR Micro-spectrometry and Pyrolysis-GC: A Case Example

• NCJ Number: 123044
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 39 Issue: 4 Dated: (July-August 1989) Pages: 239-243
• Author(s): C J Lennard; P A Margot
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Best Practice/State-of-the-Art Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The analysis of a trace found on the roadway following an accident in which a pedestrian was hit and killed by a car led to the determination of the exact point of impact that was critical in the evaluation of the driver's speed.

Abstract

The material contained in the trace could not be differentiated from the synthetic sole of the victim's shoes by microscopic comparison, FTIR spectrometry, or pyrolysis-gas chromatography indicating that the two samples were chemically similar. Given this result, it was determined that the trace from the roadway was made by the victim's shoes at the moment of impact. An accurate reconstruction of the accident could then be reconstructed and the speed of the car in the accident could then be determined. 2 figures, 6 references. (Author abstract modified)