X-ray Fluorescence/X-ray Diffraction for Forensic Analysis

Authors

Brent Kimball, Brigham Young University
Dr. Larry V. Knight, Brigham Young University

Keywords

x-ray, fluorescence, forensic analysis, organic molecules

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Physics and Astronomy

Abstract

My proposition was to determine the feasibility of using a combination x-ray fluorescence/x-ray diffraction technology (initially designed to identify strictly inorganic compounds) for the analysis of organic molecules. By modifying a mineralogical device created for NASA it is feasible to identify solid organic compounds such as drugs, harmless compounds like glucose, and some inorganic compounds that look like drugs. Emergency teams, Forensic Officers, and Police Departments and even drug manufacturers will benefit from the applications. I will provide a brief background on diffraction, clearly describe my findings, and provide proposals to further develop a working technology.

Recommended Citation

Kimball, Brent and Knight, Dr. Larry V. (2014) "X-ray Fluorescence/X-ray Diffraction for Forensic Analysis," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 1262.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1262