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Detection and Identification

Ultraviolet, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy have all been used for identifying accelerant components, but by far the most widely used technique is gas liquid chromatography. It is able to separate and detect trace amounts of volatile hydrocarbons in complex mixtures.

The four most commonly found accelerants (petrol, kerosene, mineral turpentine, and most diesel) are all highly complex mixtures of many components, in very different ratios. Most forensic laboratories feel confident in identifying these compounds on the basis of their gas chromatograms alone, even if the sample are evaporated and contaminated.

In order to make a positive identification it is necessary to identify a large number of the components present, and to note that their ratios are very similar to that of a standard. The use of evaporated and burnt standards may aid this comparison. To make absolutely sure of the identity of any component you can usually rely on gas chromatography.

Conclusion

Fires present a major social an economic problem. A thorough investigation of any large-scale fire, be it accidental or deliberate, is necessary. Scientists have expertise that can be used in the investigation, which may help find the origin of the fire if it is not found otherwise.

Bibliography

References

Redsicker,D.R.,& O?Connor,J.J,(1997).Practical Fire and Arson Investigation(2nd ed.).Boca Raton,FL:CRC Press

Internet articles

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