Forensic Chemistry

Catalog description

The course includes a discussion of the analytical, quantitative and qualitative chemical procedures required for preparation of circumstantial evidence from laboratory analysis for prosecution of court cases. Statistical methods, particularly proper sampling, data handling, and quality control procedures are discussed. Quality assurance (QA), quality control (QC), and total quality management (TQM) are explored in some detail. Laboratory procedures will include wet chemistry and spot testing as well as use of thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography with mass spectrometry and nitrogen/phosphorous detectors, FT-infrared (ATR) and Raman spectroscopy, polarizing microscopy, and other instrumental techniques. The instruments are used by the students to analyze materials typical of the case load of forensic laboratories: drug surrogates, accelerants, colorants and pigments, inks and paints, and polymers, fibers and plant materials. Prerequisite: CH 204 and CH 234