13-5 Analysis of Flammable Residues Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation Sanders

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation Accelerants Most arsons are initiated by petroleum distillate such as gasoline and kerosene. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation Analyzing Residues The gas chromatograph is the most sensitive and reliable instrument for detecting and characterizing flammable residues. Telltale signs of suspicious fires include evidence of separate and unconnected fires, the use of “streamers“ to spread the fire from one area to another, and evidence of severe burning found on the floor as opposed to the ceiling of a structure. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation Gas Chromatography A gas chromatograph separates the hydrocarbon components to produce a chromatographic pattern consistent with a particular petroleum product. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Chromatographic Peaks By comparing select gas chromatographic peaks recovered from fire scene debris to known flammable liquids, a forensic analysis may be able to identify the accelerant used to initiate the fire. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation Complex Patterns Complex chronographic patterns can be simplified. Passing the separate elements of the gas it column to a mass spectrometer. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation

Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation GC is used to separate complex mixtures. It is much better at this than thin-layer or paper chromatography. This is because it is more sensitive - allowing the determination not only of what chemicals are in the mixture, but also how much of each chemical there is. April 24, 2019 Forensic Aspects of Fire Investigation