Profiling the decomposition odour at the grave surface before and after probing

Forensic Science International : Synergy
Shari L ForbesKatelynn A Perrault

Abstract

Human remains detection (HRD) dogs are recognised as a valuable and non-invasive search method for remains concealed in many different environments, including clandestine graves. However, the search for buried remains can be a challenging task as minimal odour may be available at the grave surface for detection by the dogs. Handlers often use a soil probe during these searches in an attempt to increase the amount of odour available for detection, but soil probing is considered an invasive search technique. The aim of this study was to determine whether the soil probe assists with increasing the abundance of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) available at the grave surface. A proof-of-concept method was developed using porcine remains to collect VOCs within the grave without disturbing the burial environment, and to compare their abundance at the grave surface before and after probing. Detection and identification of the VOC profiles required the use of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS) due to its superior sensitivity and selectivity for decomposition odour profiling. The abundance of decomposition VOCs was consistently higher within the grave environment compared to t...Continue Reading

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Nov 13, 2014·Journal of Forensic Sciences·Sebastian PaczkowskiStefan Schütz

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Citations

Jun 1, 2016·Forensic Science International : Synergy·Maiken UelandShari L Forbes
Jul 8, 2016·Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·LaTara RustShari L Forbes
Nov 29, 2020·Forensic Science International : Synergy·Clément MartinFrançois Verheggen

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