Paraffin & Toxicology

Paraffin Test

A method used to detect gunshot residue to determine if a person has recently fired a gun.

Corroborative Evidence

Evidence that supports a conclusion but is not definitive on its own.

Nitrates

Substances found in gunpowder residue that can indicate if a person has fired a gun.

Tailings Deep Blue Specks

Distinctive coloration formed when nitrates react to diphenylamine (DPA) reagent.

72 hours

The optimal time frame within which a paraffin cast should be performed after a potential gun discharge.

False Positive Results

Incorrect positive results from the paraffin test due to other nitrate-containing substances.

Common Oxidizers

Substances that can cause false positives in the paraffin test, such as cigarette ash, fertilizers, and certain cosmetics.

Gunpowder Residue

Particles from the propellant, explosive primer, bullet, and cartridge case remaining after a firearm is discharged.

Gunshot Residue Test (GSR)

A test analyzing the size and density of gunpowder patterns on clothing to determine shooting distance.

Neutron Activation Analysis

An advanced method to identify specific elements in gunpowder residue using radiation levels.