Forensics, Narcotics

On Wednesday, February 19th, 2025, from 8:30–9:30 am EST, a keynote address will take place at the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Conference. We preview the keynote here.

This year, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Conference is taking place from February 17–22, 2025. We highlight the importance of spectroscopy in this field and why we’re covering the conference this year.

Researchers have demonstrated the potential of deep ultraviolet Raman spectroscopy (DUVRS) as a rapid, nondestructive, and sensitive tool for detecting antihistamines like cetirizine in oral fluid samples, paving the way for broader forensic applications.

A recent study from Texas Tech University explored using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy in age determination as part of forensic investigations.

A comprehensive review in the Microchemical Journal highlights ATR FT-IR spectroscopy's transformative role in forensic bloodstain analysis, detailing its applications, challenges, and potential advancements for more precise and reliable crime-solving methodologies.

A recent study looked at how spectroscopy can be used to differentiate ink based on its color and brand.

Miniaturized NIR spectrometers are transforming forensic science by enabling rapid, cost-effective, and portable field analysis.

This study aimed to assess and detect adulteration of Kelulut honey with different percentages of rice syrup using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy.

As part of “The Future of Forensic Analysis” content series, Spectroscopy sat down with Glen P. Jackson of West Virginia University to talk about the historical development of mass spectrometry in forensic analysis.

As part of “The Future of Forensic Analysis” content series, Spectroscopy sat down with Brooke Kammrath of the University of New Haven to talk about the significance of spectroscopy in forensic analysis.

Top articles published this week include highlights from the recently released “The Future of Forensic Analysis,” articles about detecting olive oil fraud, and an announcement from 3M regarding the winner of their Young Scientist competition.

With the release of Part 2 of “The Future of Forensic Analysis,” we break down what readers can expect from this issue.

Handheld instrumentation allows for on-site analysis without transporting samples to a laboratory, helping to reduce the cost and time of forensic investigations.

Top articles published this week include a preview of our upcoming “The Future of Forensic Analysis” e-book, a few select offerings from “The Future of Forensic Analysis,” and a news story about next-generation mineral identification.

In honor of “The Future of Forensic Analysis,” which launched on September 16th, we highlight five of our most popular articles, according to readers.

Part 2 of The Future of Forensic Analysis will be released in an e-book. We preview what this e-book will feature.

This landing page highlights the various Q&A interviews conducted for “The Future of Forensic Analysis.”

This landing page highlights some of the latest studies conducted in forensic analysis that used spectroscopic instrumentation and techniques as part of the methodology.

A new compilation in the Journal of Raman Spectroscopy highlights advanced Raman spectroscopy techniques, showcasing their transformative applications in forensic and cultural heritage fields. These approaches include mobile setups, enhanced optics, and sophisticated data treatment methods.

Researchers have developed a cutting-edge, portable LIBS sensor designed for crime scene investigations, offering both handheld and tabletop modes. This device enables on-the-spot analysis of forensic samples with unprecedented sensitivity and depth, potentially transforming forensic science.

This article offers some insight into using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy at crime scenes.

Pakorn Patimetha, Detective Sergeant with the New Jersey State Police's Hazardous Materials Response Unit spoke to Spectroscopy about how officers use portable spectroscopy technology to detect potentially harmful materials at crime scenes.

For "The Future of Forensic Analysis” series, we interviewed Barry Lavine, regents professor from The Department of Chemistry at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to describe his most recent work in applying Raman and infrared (IR) spectroscopy in forensic paint analysis.

Spectroscopy sat down with Brandon Gayle, who specializes in training first responders to use FT-IR, Raman, and other analytical techniques in emergency situations.

As part of "The Future of Forensic Analysis," executive editor Jerome Workman, Jr. sat down with Igor Lednev to discuss several of his recent papers related to his spectroscopic research in forensic analysis.