The Contribution of Trace Elements from Smokeless Powder to Post Firing Residues

Abstract

The smokeless powders in 22 kinds of ammunitions seized from one of the Japanese gang groups were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (SEM/EDX). Copper(Cu), sulfur(S), potassium(K), silicon(Si), aluminum(Al), calcium(Ca), iron(Fe), chlorine(Cl), and barium(Ba) were detected. Cu was found in all samples. One sample contained a high amount of Ba. One part of the burnt smokeless powder was found to contain Cu, K, Ca, Fe and S, the other part contained Cu, Fe, and zinc(Zn). It has been reported that the elements in gunshot residues originate from a bullet and/or a primer. However, this demonstrates that smokeless powder could be the source of some of the elements detected.

Recent developments in methods of chemical analysis in investigations of firearm-related events

“…It was shown [22] that there is a small probability of finding GSR containing a substantial concentration of antimony if the primer of the fired ammunition is antimony-free, even when the surface of the bullet is highly enriched in this element. Miayauchi et al [23] demonstrated the contribution of trace elements from smokeless powder to primer residues. Lebiedzik and Johnson [24] reported that indicators of the type of weapon and of the ammunition used in firing can be obtained from the distribution of GSR shapes and compositions.…”

A Method for the Differentiation of Single-Base and Double-Base Smokeless Powders using the Hanging Drop Technique

“…Smokeless powders are traditionally analyzed in a laboratory setting and require timeconsuming protocols and expensive confirmatory instrumentation. Previous studies cite the use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ion chromatography, and micellar electrokinetic capillary electrophoresis [5][6][7][8][9][10]. Though the confirmatory result is advantageous, the potential drawbacks for many laboratories are a drain on the economic and time resources.…”

Differences in the Element Contents Between Gunshot Entry Wounds with Full-jacketed Bullet and Lead Bullet

“…The bullet usually contains Pb, Ni, Cu, and Zn [1]. Fe may result from the barrel of the used gun [2,3]. The analysis of gunshot residues on human tissues with gunshot injuries permits the forensic scientist to confirm the possibility of entry wounds caused with gunshot bullets from a pistol, revolver, rifle, etc.…”

“…The element composition is a wellestablished point of comparison among bullet types [4]. The element contents in gunshot entry wounds and their relative contents can help the interpretation of the bullet types [1][2][3][4]. Jacketed and unjacketed (lead) bullets are common types of bullets used in forearm ammunitions.…”

“…To determine gunshot residues on tissues, atomic absorption spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) are mainly used [1][2][3][4][5]. As ICP-AES is one of sensitive methods for metal analysis, it has been successfully used for this purpose.…”