Chemical science has a very important role to play in forensics. DNA profiling methods have revolutionised crime investigation by allowing identification of the source of human tissue, and fingerprints are an invaluable aid. But when this type of evidence is not available, what other methods can be used to find the answers? 

David Rendle of the University of Reading, UK, and a former Metropolitan Police forensic scientist, has evaluated the various chemical techniques available. He surveys seven areas: firearms discharge residues, toxicology, drug analysis, explosives, classical trace evidence (textile fibres, paint, glass, soil and others), arson and inks. 

Rendle explains the background to each area and outlines the available techniques. He also stresses the importance of databases and, in a world of mass production, the necessity of sensitive techniques and method validation. He discusses the prospects for forensic science, including developments in miniaturisation and automation aimed at enabling scene-of-crime analysis, increasing speed and reducing turn-around time. The ideal is to identify sensitive, conclusive, non-invasive and non-destructive techniques. 

His review provides a broad background to forensic chemistry, familiarising the reader with contemporary analytical problems and the ways in which analytical chemistry can be of use.

Robin J Forder