Chemical Profiling of Trace Odours for Forensic Identification: A Review
https://doi.org/10.47836/mjmhs.19.3.45
- Author:
Muhammad Hafizuddin Mohd Kamal
1
;
Maizatul Hasyima Omar
2
;
Chang Kah Haw
1
;
Yusmazura Zakaria
3
;
Nik Fakhuruddin Nik Hassan
1
Author Information
1. Forensic Science Programme, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
2. Phytochemistry Unit, Herbal Medicine Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health, Malaysia, Level 5, Block C7, No. 1, Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Seksyen U13, Setia Alam, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
3. Biomedicine Programme, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Trace odour, Chemical profiling, Forensic, Identification
- From:Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences
2023;19(No.3):349-361
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Trace odour is one of the trace material evidence that has significant value in forensic analysis. The recovery of
relevant trace odour components from clothing has the potential to be a form of trace evidence that can be used to
assess the likelihood of a contact between individuals in sexual and violent cases. They have the same potential as
other trace evidence and can narrow down the suspect in the investigation. Studies conducted previously related to
trace odour have succeeded in proving that this trace odour is unique, has its signature profile and can distinguish it
from other sources such as fingerprints and DNA. This review highlights these trace odours and their persistence after
being transferred, which contribute to a complete picture of the dynamics and potential application in the forensic
reconstruction process. The literature was sourced from electronic databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Springer
Link, Wiley On¬line Library and Science Direct. Keywords such “odour”, “trace odour”, “scent”, “volatile organic
compound”, “forensic identification” were utilised. Further studies on various forms of trace odour are needed to
strengthen their evidential values and be admissible to the court.
- Full text:11.2023my1545.pdf
