The study of fire debris analysis is vital to the function of all fire investigations, and, as such, Fire Debris Analysis is an essential resource for fire investigators. The present methods of analysis include the use of gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, techniques which are well established and used by crime laboratories throughout the world. However, despite their universality, this is the first comprehensive resource that addresses their application to fire debris analysis.Fire Debris Analysis covers topics such as the physics and chemistry of fire and liquid fuels, the interpretation of data obtained from fire debris, and the future of the subject. Its cutting-edge material and experienced author team distinguishes this book as a quality reference that should be on the shelves of all crime laboratories. - Serves as a comprehensive guide to the science of fire debris analysis - Presents both basic and advanced concepts in an easily readable, logical sequence - Includes a full-color insert with figures that illustrate key concepts discussed in the text

The practice of arson analysis in a forensic science laboratory is based upon detecting the presence of ignitable liquids. If an ignitable liquid is present, it is suggestive of arson; if no ignitable liquid is found an arson claim is more difficult to assert. Ignitable liquids are detected using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Instrumental results from a GC/MS can display components of an ignitable liquid but an analyst needs to make the final decision. Even with correct instrumentation and suggested guidelines, ignitable liquid analysis can be subjective and based upon the analysts' education and experience. To better understand the interpretive practices of the fire debris analysis community, a survey consisting of reference samples, mixture standards, and multiple unknowns was created in consultation with the Los Angeles Police Department Arson Unit. The samples consisted of different substrates with varying classes and volumes of ignitable liquid. They were created using a destructive distillation method first developed by the State of Florida Bureau of Forensic Fire and Explosives Analysis. Extraction of the samples was completed using a carbon strip to perform passive headspace absorption following the ASTM E 1412 method. The samples were analyzed with a GC/MS following National Commission on Forensic Science parameters. To maintain confidentiality, participant responses are stripped of identifiers and the results of the survey, details about the procedure, and discussions will be presented.

Gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is an established instrumental technique used for the analysis of fire debris for accelerant detection. However, matrix problems, such as pyrolysis product interference, are still encountered. These interferences often lead to inconclusive interpretation of the chromatographic results. This study describes methods for analysing arson accelerants using gas chromatography coupled with ion trap mass spectrometry. The latter technique lends itself to both conventional (GC-MS) as well as tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS). Since petrol (gasoline) is one of the more common distillate blends used by arsonists, especially in South Africa, the identification of petrol in fire debris samples was investigated. In order to overcome pyrolysis product interference and improve detection selectivity of the aromatic hydrocarbons in petrol residues, tandem mass spectrometry was used in combination with capillary gas chromatography. The added parameter of the third dimension of selectivity proved to be superior to conventional GC-MS in obtaining characteristic aromatic hydrocarbon profiles for petrol without interference from pyrolysis artefacts.