Derivative Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry: A Rapid, Screening Tool for the Detection of Petroleum Products Residues in Fire Debris Samples

The present article describes the potential utility of derivative ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometric technique to detect petroleum products (gasoline, kerosene and diesel) in fire debris residues. Derivative UV spectra of these petroleum products were recorded in their neat state, and compared with those obtained from fire debris samples in order to distinguish them. Derivative UV spectrophotometry is capable of differentiating between these petroleum products as derivative spectra have more number of points for comparison than their corresponding normal spectrum. Additionally, it was observed that different burnt substrates (water, wire, cloth and foam) did not cause any interference in analysis and interpretation of spectra. Cyclohexane was used to extract traces of petroleum products from fire debris residues. The technique is rapid and could be used for the screening purpose at the initial stage of investigation. Taking into account the results obtained in the present work, it is possible to suggest the use of this technique to distinguish these petroleum products in fire debris samples received in forensic investigations related to arson or the use of improvised incendiary devices.