Analytical Techniques
Geo-forensic investigations use the global, regional and local variations in:
- Stable isotopes - hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur isotopic ratios as regional and local factors
- Palynology and mineralogy - the study of spores and pollen, and minerals respectively
- Elemental concentrations - using our Ion Beam Analysis Research Laboratory
- Heavy isotope variations - using our Cosmogenic Isotope and Radiochemistry Laboratory
Potential Applications
CRIMINAL FORENSICS
- relating a suspect to the scene of the crime
- relating an item left at the scene to a suspect
- relating an item found at the discovery scene to the scene of the crime
- supporting or disproving alibis
- tracing materials (e.g. fruit, drugs, bee pollen, plants, and almost any other item) to its original source in New Zealand or overseas
- supplying investigators with more promising lines of inquiry or eliminating currently active lines of inquiry
- confirming the age and/or identity of various organic and inorganic materials
AUTHENTICATION
- Proof of origin
- Proof of declaration
- Batch matching
- Traceability systems
- Forgery of marking systems
- Determining organic vs conventional products
- Detecting illicit ingredients in food
- Distinguishing natural or synthetic additives
- Checking mixtures