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Forensic analysis with Raman microscopy

Forensic science requires high-performance versatile analytical instruments which are reliable and traceable. Renishaw's Raman systems deliver these key requirements and are used in forensic science laboratories worldwide.

inVia™ InSpect confocal Raman microscope

Our best-selling confocal Raman microscope optimised for use in forensic laboratories for trace analysis.

inVia™ InSpect confocal Raman microscope
SEM-Raman

The innovative inLux SEM Raman interface brings high-quality Raman functionality to your SEM chamber.

inLux SEM Raman interface

Versatility is evident

You can accurately detect and analyse small fragments of material with Renishaw's Raman systems.

  • Identify particles, fibres and materials
  • Analyse paint smears from vehicle collisions
  • Identify narcotics
  • Detect counterfeits
  • Identify traces of explosives and gunshot residues
  • Differentiate pen and printer inks, and determine the sequence with which lines cross on questioned documents

Reliable results

Renishaw's Raman systems produce data that accurately represents the sample, time and time again. They perform routine internal health checks so you can be confident in your data.

Investigate using different techniques

Raman analysis is non-contacting and non-destructive. You can analyse your samples multiple times and subsequently study them with other techniques.

Bring chemical analysis power to your scanning electron microscope (SEM), by adding a Renishaw inLux™ SEM Raman interface. Identify not just the elements present but their chemical structures too.

When speed is of the essence

Rapid analysis of even minute particles is at the heart of forensic science. Some key forensic techniques are slow. With Renishaw Raman systems you can quickly identify suspect materials or detect target substances.

Image gallery

  • Dollar bill showing traces of explosive
  • Crossing inks WL
  • Crossing inks Raman

We're here when you need us

To find out more about this application area, or an application that isn't covered here, contact our applications team.

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BR017 Brochure inVia InSpect confocal Raman microscope thumbnail
Brochure: inVia InSpect confocal Raman microscope
Find out how Raman microscopy complements other analytical techniques. The inViaTM InSpect microscope is perfect for non-destructive trace analysis in your forensic laboratory.
DS036 Data sheet inVia InSpect confocal Raman microscope thumbnail
Data sheet: inVia InSpect confocal Raman microscope
The inVia™ InSpect confocal Raman microscope has been optimised for trace analysis work in forensic laboratories. Understand the details of this customised configuration.
AN237 Application note GSR analysis with inVia InSpect thumbnail
Application note: GSR analysis with inVia InSpect
You can use Raman microscopy to analyse gunshot residue (GSR), an important class of trace evidence when investigating the alleged use of a firearm. See how easily Raman analysis can identify the chemicals in GSR with high specificity.
AN233 Application note Particle analysis of trace fingerprint residue thumbnail
Application note: Particle analysis of trace fingerprint residue
We show you how to use our Particle Analysis software module to analyse trace materials in fingerprint residues deposited on a drink can. See how an automated workflow was used to detect and analyse a small amount of particles over a large area.
AN253 Application note Analysing gunshot residues with Raman microscopy thumbnail
Application note: Analysing gunshot residues with Raman microscopy
Gunshot residues (GSR) are debris expelled from a discharged firearm, and are often a vital part of forensic investigations. We show you how to use an automated Raman spectroscopy to analyse GSR, for both both inorganic and organic GSR compounds.

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Trace analysis in fingerprints

To be truly useful in a highly practical and physical environment, chemical imaging needs to be versatile and forgiving over a range of object surfaces. We put Raman imaging to the test by analysing a fingerprint on the side of a soda can.

How Raman analysis can help identify forged documents

Raman analysis allows for rapid, non-destructive testing of questioned areas with the specificity to distinguish different ink types that may look identical. We test a method for analysing crossed ink lines to identify possible forgeries.