Entry requirements

Bachelor's degree 120 credit points/180 credits. Knowledge in chemistry/biochemistry equivalent 20 credit points/30 credits.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course the student shall be able to: - describe the chemistry that is utilised in different methods to visualise fingerprints - describe the chemistry that is utulized indifferent methods to identify explosives - account for the principles for the instrumental techniques that are presented during the course - use spectroscopic techniques to investigate for example documents bullets, tools - suggest and use appropriate method for determination of fire accelerators - utilise multivariate methods to distinguish chemical traces as glass fragments, and other pigments - evaluate results received with different methods with respect to selectivity and sensitivity

Content

Methods for the analysis of samples taken at fires to find the cause. Fingerprint with different techniques will be illustrated. Methods to connect bullets to manufacturer and weapons is discussed. Identification of paper with spectroscopic techniques. Analysis of pigments from documents and samples from car accidents such as flakes from inc and glass where identification by means of multivariate data analysis is discussed. Identification of tools from their steel composition. Methods to distinguish different explosives is demonstrated. The course comprises lectures and a number of laboratory sessions where the methods are used on relevant samples. In the course, a larger literature project is also included that is presented orally and with a written report.

Instruction

Lectures, demonstrations, seminars, laboratory sessions, eventually study visit

Assessment

Written examination at the end of the course. For approval, passed laboratory course and passed project are also required. Laboratory sessions that are part of the course and projects are marked to 6 credits.