Analyzing Forensic Evidence Based on Density with Magnetic Levitation1. Issue 1 (16th July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lockett, Matthew R.; Mirica, Katherine A.; Mace, Charles R.; Blackledge, Robert D.; Whitesides, George M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic sciences. Volume 58:Issue 1(2013)
• Page Start: 40
• Page End: 45
• Publication Date: 2012-07-16
• Subjects: Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Forensic sciences -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; 363.2505
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2012.02221.x
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-1198

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" xml:lang="en" id="jfo2221-abs-0001"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>This paper describes a method for determining the density of contact trace objects with magnetic levitation (MagLev). MagLev measurements accurately determine the density (±0.0002 g/cm³) of a diamagnetic object and are compatible with objects that are nonuniform in shape and size. The MagLev device (composed of two permanent magnets with like poles facing) and the method described provide a means of accurately determining the density of trace objects. This method is inexpensive, rapid, and verifiable and provides numerical values—independent of the specific apparatus or analyst—that correspond to the absolute density of the sample that may be entered into a searchable database. We discuss the feasibility of MagLev as a possible means of characterizing forensic‐related evidence and demonstrate the ability of MagLev to (i) determine the density of samples of glitter and gunpowder, (ii) separate glitter particles of different densities, and (iii) determine the density of a glitter sample that was removed from a complex sample matrix.</p> </abstract>