Forensic Chemistry

Glass

Glass is one of the most common and important substances submitted to forensic science laboratories for analysis. It's frequently encountered at crime scenes, particularly those involving motor vehicle accidents, car theft and burglaries. Glass, fragments of which may remain on clothing for a long time, is very stable – it doesn't degrade like biological evidence and doesn't alter over time.

Cellmark has partnered with Scientifics to provide a comprehensive glass service. Scientifics is an independent testing, analysis and consultancy business. Scientifics provides solutions, advice and data to customers to help them comply with the relevant legislation for their markets.

Scientific's scanning electron microscopy (SEM) including Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis provides a powerful tool in the fight against crime.

Forensic scientists use this technique to chemically analyse glass (and paint samples) taken from crime scenes, which can be matched to fragments of glass and paint found on the suspects clothing and footwear.