GSR Analysis by Spectrophotometry Method in Forensic Chemistry

Abstract

This study was conducted to analyze residual shots from forensic chemistry applications. The entire analysis process was evaluated with Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and, Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS)devices, which are among the methods for obtaining efficient results, and positive results were tried to be obtained by comparison. Following the study, it was discussed which results were more appropriate; in particular, the samples' appropriateness for reanalysis was underlined. The presence of shot residues on all samples was determined in the analyses performed with the SEM/EDS device. When the same samples were analyzed with the GFAAS device, the results remained below the threshold value of 10 μg/L, which is the antimony concentration indicating the presence of shot residues. It should be noted that the values we obtained may vary with the size and weight of the shot residue particles. Due to the ease of sample collection, the capacity to identify elements other than gunshot residues on the sample under examination, and the circumstances surrounding the determination of particles below the threshold value, the analysis method utilizing the SEM/EDS device has been deemed more suitable despite its higher cost.