Forensic Fiber Analysis Advanced Microscopy and Microchemistry (Oct 19 - 23, 2015)

Proficiency in polarized light microscopy is assumed and necessary. Animal fibers are recognized by their morphology and classified into major groups. Synthetic and regenerated fibers are characterized by polarized light microscopy. Vegetable fibers are characterized by anatomical features. Methods for the collection of fibers are considered and practiced. Students in this course typically include forensic and materials scientists as well as those indoor dusts and contaminant identification.

Optical and microchemical methods are used for characterization and identification of natural, regenerated and synthetic fibers.