NCJ Number
231633
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 55 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2010 Pages: 915-923
Date Published
July 2010
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study employed polarized light microscopy (PLM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy to characterize selected fibers of azlon, polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose composites of alginate or chitin, and bamboo (viscose rayon).
Abstract
Fibers that are termed "eco-friendly" or "biodegradable" by manufacturers are increasingly being used in textile products such as apparel and carpeting to appeal to the ever more environmentally aware public. As such, these modern fibers are expected to begin showing up more often in forensic casework, and it is important that the forensic examiner recognize them. this study conducted fiber cross-sections, refractive indices, melting points, solubilities, and FTIR measurements. Results indicate that the azlons and PLA fibers are easily distinguishable from other textile fibers by their optical and chemical properties. The cellulose composites show only small differences in comparison with other cellulose-based fibers, while bamboo viscose rayon is indistinguishable from normal viscose rayon. (Published Abstract)