Validation Study for Vinyl Electrical Tape End Matches

• NCJ Number: 234639
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 56 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2011 Pages: 606-611
• Author(s): Maureen J. Bradley, Ph.D.; Jennifer M. Gauntt, M.D.; Andria H. Mehltretter, M.S.; Preston C. Lowe, M.S.; Diana M. Wright, Ph.D.
• Date Published: May 2011
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Presented at the 58th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, February 20–25, 2006, in Seattle, WA.

Annotation

This study was designed to determine the validity and error rate associated with conducting end-match (fracture match) examinations on vinyl electrical tape.

Abstract

Fracture matches are considered the strongest conclusion in the forensic examination of rigid materials, such as glass, metal, and paint. However, publications that support the fracture matching of polymeric films, such as tape backings, are limited. In the current study, test designs varied the source roll of tape, test preparer, or mode of separation from the roll. Results indicated that each affected the resulting severed tape ends. The analysts examining the end matches also had an effect on the results. Eight end matches in the study were not identified by the initial analysts and were considered inconclusive. One end match was misidentified, resulting in one false positive and an error rate of 0.049 percent. These results support a comprehensive physical and chemical tape comparison regardless of indications of an end match. (Published Abstract)