Hyperspectral imaging for non-contact analysis of forensic traces

G. J. Edelman, E. Gaston, T. G. van Leeuwen, P. J. Cullen, M. C.G. Aalders

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    Abstract

    Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) integrates conventional imaging and spectroscopy, to obtain both spatial and spectral information from a specimen. This technique enables investigators to analyze the chemical composition of traces and simultaneously visualize their spatial distribution. HSI offers significant potential for the detection, visualization, identification and age estimation of forensic traces. The rapid, non-destructive and non-contact features of HSI mark its suitability as an analytical tool for forensic science. This paper provides an overview of the principles, instrumentation and analytical techniques involved in hyperspectral imaging. We describe recent advances in HSI technology motivating forensic science applications, e.g. the development of portable and fast image acquisition systems. Reported forensic science applications are reviewed. Challenges are addressed, such as the analysis of traces on backgrounds encountered in casework, concluded by a summary of possible future applications.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)28-39
    Number of pages12
    JournalForensic Science International
    Volume223
    Issue number1-3
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 30 Nov 2012

    Keywords

    • Aging
    • Chemical imaging
    • Detection
    • Forensic science
    • Hyperspectral imaging
    • Identification
    • Spectroscopic imaging

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