Special Problems in Forensic Materials Analysis by XRD

Abstract

There are three factors which may influence the method by which a piece of evidence is analyzed in a forensic laboratory. The first stems from the definition of the word forensic. It means ”… pertaining to, connected with, or used in the courts of law…” The major areas of forensic analysis are criminal, regulatory, and civil. The purpose of an analysis may be to aid in the prosecution or defense of criminal charges, to determine if a product meets its statutory requirements, to satisfy a consumer complaint, or to determine liability. For these reasons the legal aspects of an analysis may often put constraints upon the analyst. These may require special handling or documentation procedures.