Lead Isotope Ratio Determination for the Forensic Analysis of Military Small Arms Projectiles

A study focusing on the ability to utilize isotopic analysis of Pb used in small arms projectiles from varying geographic origin was undertaken using the GV Instruments Isoprobe multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. With the exception of two classes of ammunition, these sample...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Analytical chemistry (Washington) 2003-10, Vol.75 (19), p.5022-5029
Main Authors: Buttigieg, Gavin A, Baker, Mark E, Ruiz, Joaquin, Denton, M. Bonner
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analytical chemistry
Chemistry
Exact sciences and technology
Forensic chemistry
Isotopes
Lead
Military weapons
Spectrometric and optical methods
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Summary:A study focusing on the ability to utilize isotopic analysis of Pb used in small arms projectiles from varying geographic origin was undertaken using the GV Instruments Isoprobe multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. With the exception of two classes of ammunition, these samples were able to be distinguished from one another. Also, following rigorous normalization and mass bias correction, these data were compared to data collected by geochemists in localities corresponding to projectile manufacture. This comparison was successful when projectiles in certain economically isolated countries were analyzed. Pb isotopic analysis with MC−ICPMS is shown to be useful as a tool for distinguishing between ammunition of various manufacturing origins.
ISSN:0003-2700
1520-6882
DOI:10.1021/ac0301346