NCJ Number
113153
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 33 Issue: 4 Dated: (July 1988) Pages: 929-945
Date Published
1988
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This study compared the Spectra-Physics Model 171-19, 18-W argon ion laser and Laser Sonics Model CS-2, 200-mW air-cooled argon ion laser with Payton Scientific's Luma-Print, high-intensity quartz arc tube in their capabilities for detecting body secretions.
Abstract
The light sources were evaluated for detection limits for various biological stains. The evaluated stains had been made during prior research and stored at room temperature for approximately 2 years. The stains were a serial dilution made from semen, saliva, and sweat specimens and were examined using both laser light sources and the high-intensity quartz arc tube. All of the instruments tested proved to be excellent for the detection of body fluid secretions. The Luma-Print light had a better detection rate for the semen, saliva, and sweat stains examined. The detection rates were the same for both the 18-W and 200-mW lasers. The major disadvantage of the 18-W laser is its cost compared to the other instruments. Other disadvantages are its higher power consumption, immobility, and plasma tube replacement cost. 6 tables, 21 figures, 5 references. (Author abstract modified)