Analysis of Hair Fibers
Hair analysis and hair fiber analysis are widely used in forensic sciences and in crime labs to aid in the identification and conviction of suspects. Human hairs can be transferred with contact and are the most common form of biological evidence left at a crime scene.
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Collection
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The collection of hair and hair fiber from a crime scene is a tedious procedure requiring tweezers and a magnifying glass or microscope.
Microscope Analysis
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Hair fibers are then analyzed under a microscope to identify color, texture, shape pattern, twist, and cross-sectional appearance, as well as any other identifiable surface characteristics.
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Benefits
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Microscopic analysis of hair fibers can often determine the race of a suspect. It can also determine where on the body the hair was from, which has significance at a crime scene. Although sex cannot currently be determined from hair, advances in genetic research may make this a routine forensic technique.
Microchemical Analysis
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Tests on the chemical composition of hair are often performed, testing for properties such as melting point, density, ash formation, tensile strength, and solubility. However, these tests destroy the hair and can only be performed once.
Root Examination
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The root of hair is examined to determine how the hair was lost from the body. If the root is shown to have follicular tissue attached, forensic scientists know the hair has been forcibly removed.
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