News
New techniques to probe time of death
There are numerous methods of determining Post Mortem Interval (PMI) – or for us less accustomed to forensic science terminology, the amount of time a body has been dead for.
At the cruder end of the spectrum, physical changes to the body, for example, Algor Mortis, Rigor Mortis and Livor Mortis, can give a rough estimation in recently deceased bodies.
At the more advanced end DNA quantification and infrared spectroscopy can provide vastly more accurate analyses of PMI.
Estimation of PMI is a matter of crucial importance in criminal, forensic and civil investigation as an accurate determination can provide answers to whether a death was homicide or suicide. Therefore reliable and affordable methods of determining PMI are needed.
Fortunately new research into the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) released by decomposing bodies is providing forensic scientists with a new method to determine time of death.
During the periods of decomposition generally recognised as Bloat and Active Decay, anaerobic metabolism leads to the accumulation of gases, such as hydrogen sulphide, carbon dioxide and methane.
As the pressure of the gas increases and the integrity of the decomposing skin lessens, ruptures allow VOCs to escape the body. A research team has now used a form of Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectronomy (GS-MS) to identify not only the different types of gases involved but also analyse the changes these gases go through during the various processes of decomposition.
GS-MS is already widely used in criminal forensics and law enforcement in a variety ways, to analyse DNA and fire debris and also to identify narcotics.
Using GS-MS to create a profile for VOCs related to body decomposition will help forensic scientists to narrow down the stages of decomposition and provide a more accurate determination of PMI. Applying these profiles to other new technologies, such as E-Noses could provide a tool that can easily and affordably be used in the field.
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