Molecular spectroscopy in forensics

The right analytical techniques provide answers to confidently identify samples from opioids to paint chips to counterfeit paper. Whether your lab is consumed by the opioid crisis or busy investigating other serious crimes, having the right instrument(s) can help move cases from the investigation stage to solved.

The best techniques for identifying and analyzing chemical data are Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. These techniques can be used together or independently, and work with a variety of samples types, offer different sample prep options and confirm sample information by using libraries. See examples below on how to solve the most common forensic cases or talk to a specialist about the analytical needs of your lab.

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Featured application note

Distinguishing isomers of fentanyl analogs using FT-Raman

Illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fentanyl analogs (FAs) is becoming a major driver of opioid overdose. We have demonstrated that FT-Raman spectroscopy is a safe, fast, and complementary technique for the detection and identification of powders and other apprehended materials including fentanyl.

In this note, two examples of distinguishing FA isomers using FT-Raman spectroscopy are described. A pair of constitutional isomers: butyryl fentanyl and isobutyryl fentanyl, and a pair of geometric isomers: cis- and trans3-methyl fentanyl were analyzed by FT-Raman.

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Controlled Substances

Our solutions support law enforcement and criminal justice efforts to deal with large quantities of seized drug evidence, to analyze and ID emerging synthetic designer drugs, and distinguish exact identity among similar drugs.

Controlled substances

Featured products for controlled substance analysis

Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

Suspicious Documents

Find peer-proven paper and ink investigation tools to assist forensic document examiners view suspicious articles regarding theft identity, forgery, counterfeiting, fraud, or uttering of a forged document.

Suspicious documents

Featured product for suspicious document analysis

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

Trace Evidence Detection

Most materials analyses require multi-dimensional analysis to provide the full picture. Using a combination of FTIR microscopes and spectrometers along with advances in Raman technology, you can enhance the probative value of your evidence.

Trace evidence detection

Featured products for trace evidence detection

Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS50 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iS20 FTIR Spectrometer

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

Nicolet iN10 FTIR Microscope

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