Spatial Distribution of Postblast RDX Residue: Forensic Implications

• NCJ Number: 246047
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2013 Pages: 365-371
• Author(s): Nadia Abdul-Karim, M.Res; Ruth Morgan, D.Phil; Russell Binions, Ph.D.; Tracey Temple, M.Sc.; Karl Harrison, Ph.D.
• Date Published: March 2013
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance); Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigated patterns in the spatial distribution of postblast 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazocyclohexane residue from a series of unconfined detonations, over a range of sampling sites, and at two different detonation heights.

Abstract

Locating exactly where trace explosive residue samples should be sought during sample collection at bomb scenes is not specified in the published literature or guidelines; in this area, it is generally acknowledged that forensic practices are based on tradition rather than evidence. This study investigated patterns in the spatial distribution of postblast 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazocyclohexane residue from a series of unconfined detonations, over a range of sampling sites, and at two different detonation heights. The amount of residue recovered from the sites decreased as a function of distance from the center of the explosion. [Correction added after online publication 27 December 2012: In the preceding sentence, "increased" was corrected to "decreased" to agree with the conclusion of the article.] As the height of the detonations increased, more residues were found from all sampling sites. The findings of this empirical study have a number of important practical implications including determining where residue samples are best sought at crime scenes. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.