Paint
About paint analysis
Forensic paint analysis involves examining the protective or decorative coatings on various objects, such as vehicles, tools, or structures. Paint transfers frequently occur during the commission of a crime, providing valuable evidence.
For example, during a hit-and-run, paint can be transferred from a vehicle to a victim's clothing. Similarly, a tool used in a burglary may leave behind paint smears while also picking up paint from the point of entry.
The purpose of a forensic paint examination is either to:
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Compare paint from one source to a sample recovered at a crime scene.
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Determine a possible source of a recovered paint sample by searching a paint database.
The analysis process
Dried paint is a complex combination of organic and inorganic materials, often composed of many distinct layers. A forensic paint examiner uses a variety of tools to identify and compare paint samples, including:
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A stereomicroscope and polarized light microscope for visual identification.
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Analytical instrumentation to gather distinct information about the paint's characteristics and composition.