Smokeless Powder Residue Analysis by Capillary Electrophoresis

• NCJ Number: 164264
• Date Published: 1997
• Author(s): D M Northrop; W A MacCrehan
• Length: 22 pages
• Grant Number(s): 60NANB-9D0926; LEAA-J-IAA-021-3
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)

Annotation

This paper presents a procedure for analyzing residues from fired smokeless powder collected from the hands of shooters, clothing, spent shell casings, or explosive remains in crimes involving the use of firearms and improvised explosive devices such as pipe bombs.

Abstract

The bases of the test are the qualitative and quantitative identification of characteristic organic components present in the post-combustion residues. The residues are collected by adhesive film life; by alcohol swabbing of hands, clothing, spend shell casing, and explosive debris; or both. The residues are analyzed using micellar electrokinetic capillary electrophoresis (MECE). The MECE technique provides identification or organic additives in the smokeless powder. The procedure may provide positive identification of the use of materials containing smokeless powder. Figures, tables, and 4 references (Author abstract modified)