When attempting to find trace amounts of an inorganic substance x-ray diffraction would be a valuable tool for discovering just what substances were present. It would not be the first choice according to various researchers, but it would be one of the least invasive as well as one of the least likely to destroy the sample. By using x-ray diffraction it is possible to differentiate between substances, making it easier to identify trace elements that can be found in crime scenes. X-ray diffraction is a valuable but slightly limited technique that is used by forensic science thanks to its unique capabilities.
The field of forensic science was for a long time a self-taught discipline and never taken seriously until its advantages were show to help in the apprehension of criminals through scientific means. Many such methods have been devised since it first came to be used by law enforcement. As time has passed many techniques and methods have been abandoned or revolutionized in order to increase the efficiency of forensics when paired with law enforcement. In the current era forensics is an invaluable tool to law enforcement.
Cases in which x-ray diffraction has been used have showcased its unique manner of
identifying different materials. As Abraham, Shukla, and Singh (2007) have noted in their
research, x-ray diffraction is a very simple and very common method that is used primarily for
powder samples. In cases regarding non-powder samples however it is rarely used. This is
largely because of the size and scope of the average crime sample that is brought to any forensics
lab.
X-ray diffraction is also limited on a larger scope because of limited materials, and the need to preserve any and all samples. This technique is a very useful tool with materials that are not as large or that require more materials to conduct such a test. While x-ray diffraction is highly valuable it is not as popular a choice within the field of forensics as it is somewhat limited. There have however been instances in which x-ray diffraction has been quite useful.
X-ray diffraction has been used to characterize different substances that, while not typically a powdered material, were able to be identified through this method. This technique can be used to determine the degree of crystallinity in a given sample, but without being given a proper sample it can read becomes very ineffective. This method is also used quite often with other techniques that can enhance and create an overlap that can help to confirm whatever findings are discovered.
This method is usually used when there is evidence or suspicion that something has not yet turned up. It is useful for finer detail and differentiating one substance from another, but normally is not the preferred method of forensic scientists. In law enforcement it is highly useful when applied to crime scenes that have been disturbed, disrupted, or otherwise contaminated. By using x-ray diffraction it is possible to discover trace elements that might have something to do with an ongoing case.
Despite its accuracy and capability to help law enforcement, x-ray diffraction is still a last
resort when attempting to discover trace elements within a crime scene. It is limited in that it
cannot handle a large amount of evidence all at once. Because of this it is a more meticulous, but not less effective means of forensics. As a last resort it becomes the best chance of finding
hidden clues that can lead to the resolution of a crime scene.
Works Cited
Abraham, Johnny T., Shukla, S.K., & Singh, A.K. “Application of X-Ray Diffraction
Techniques in Forensic Science.” Forensic Science Communications 9.2 (2007): 1-6.
