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Tracing the Source of Illicit Drugs Through Plastic Packaging--A Database

NCJ Number
181765
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 45 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2000 Pages: 99-114
Author(s)
C. Roux Ph.D; S. Bull; J. Goulding; C. Lennard Ph.D.
Date Published
January 2000
Length
16 pages
Annotation
Common plastic drug packaging material available in Australia and Asia was analyzed using a standard protocol to determine whether significant differences exist between different sources, to establish the evidential value of these analyses, and to develop a database of common packaging material.
Abstract
The analytical protocol included optical examination, UV-visible spectrophotometric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared analysis of 46 samples from Australia and 31 from Asia. Results revealed that visual examination was the most effective means for distinguishing samples. Thickness and weight measurements provided useful information. Visualization of machining marks using crossed polarized light was useful in the comparison process. UV-visible spectrophotometry had some value for distinguishing samples; Fourier transform infrared analysis was a good technique for determination of the polymer composition of the packaging. In addition, the Australian and Asian samples differed significantly. The Australian Database of Drug Packaging materials was created to collate systematically all the collected data for application on personal computers. Findings suggested that the properties of plastic packaging materials can be excellent indicators for identifying the specific brand or origin of the packaging. Figures, tables, photographs, and 14 references (Author abstract modified)