Searching for biological traces on different materials using a forensic light source and infrared photography

Abstract

Because biological traces often play an important role in the investigation process of criminal acts, their detection is essential. As they are not always visible to the human eye, tools like a forensic light source or infrared photography can be used. The intention of the study presented was to give advice how to visualize biological traces best. Which wavelengths and/or filters give the best results for different traces on different fabrics of different colors? Therefore, blood (undiluted and diluted), semen, urine, saliva, and perspiration have been examined on 29 different materials.

Keywords: Biological stain; Blood; Forensic light source; Forensic photography; Infrared photography; Lumatec Superlite 410; Perspiration; Saliva; Semen; Urine.