The Chemistry Unit
is divided into four subunits whose analyses and functions include
the following:
General Chemistry
Subunit
- Identifies specific
dyes and chemicals used in bank security devices. Analyzes items
such as clothing or currency for the presence of these dyes and
chemicals.
- Analyzes controlled
substances to determine identity and quantity.
- Compares stains or
markings to suspected sources. Detects presence of lubricants
and compares to suspected sources.
- Compares the formulations
of known and questioned ink (e.g., pens, typewriters, stamp pads).
- Conducts chemical
characterizations of unknown solids or liquids.
- Performs pharmaceutical
identification of constituent composition, active ingredients,
quantity, and weight.
Toxicology Subunit
- Conducts toxicological
analyses of biological specimens or food products for drugs,
drug metabolites, and poisons.
- Investigates claims
of product tampering.
Paints and Polymers
Subunit
- Analyzes paint chips
for comparison to suspected sources.
- Conducts automotive
make, model, and year determinations from suspected paint samples.
Maintains the National Automotive Paint File.
- Compares plastics
to suspected sources.
- Determines tape composition,
construction, and color for comparison to suspected sources.
Determines manufacturer of suspected duct tape. Performs tape
identifications with the torn or cut end of the tape and a roll
of suspected tape. Maintains the National Forensic Tape File.
- Compares caulks, sealants,
and adhesives by color and composition to suspected sources.
Instrumentation
Operation
and Support Subunit
- Calibrates and maintains
analytical instrumentation.
- Evaluates new technologies.
- Maintains the Chemistry
Unit Instrument Database.
- Archives data.
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Pills submitted for analysis |
Blood samples from a murder investigation |
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