SEM Particle Analysis of Gunshot Residue Webinar

Duration: 48 min

The way gunshot residue analysis is performed is changing. While analysts once commonly used room-filling scanning electron microscopes (SEMs), many now choose desktop SEMs for their ease of use and high performance. However, desktop SEMs have many applications in forensic and crime laboratories, and gunshot residue analysis can take several hours and prevent other SEM uses. The ideal solution is a dedicated and high-speed desktop SEM that can automatically perform gunshot analysis, such as the Thermo Scientific Phenom ParticleX GSR Desktop SEM.

In this talk we will focus on the software workflow and how to set up automated particle analysis according to ASTM standard guidelines. We will also cover instrument accuracy and outline the critical requirements when using an SEM for gunshot residue analysis.

We will also show how you can collect results from up to 30 samples in a defined recipe, scan each sample frame-by-frame, measure particle morphology at high magnification, and examine each particle for classification via EDS. Furthermore, we review why it is important to revisit the sample to confirm the chemistry of the GSR particle and how to generate a report that can be presented as solid evidence.

You’ll learn:

• How to automatically collect gunshot residue evidence on a desktop SEM
• Why it is important to have a high-brightness electron source designed for long life and stability
• How to make a strong case for a dedicated desktop SEM for GSR in your laboratory