A Forensic Approach to Evaluate the Effect of Different Matrices and Extraction Solvents for the Identification of Diesel Residue in Simulated Arson by GC–MS

Abstract

Investigation of an arson case presents several challenges to the forensic investigator. Identification of the ignitable liquid residues in the fire debris is one of the crucial tasks that may help to determine the nature and cause of fire. Detection of the ignitable liquids using different analytical methods has been practiced for a long period across the globe. Diesel is a petroleum product that shows stable burning than gasoline and it is frequently used as accelerant also. This study was conducted to diagnose the efficiency of solvent as well as of the matrices for the detection of diesel residue. In this study, four different matrices (cotton cloth, wood, glaze tile, and PVC) were selected to create simulated miniature version of arson with diesel as an accelerant. After extinguishing the fire, diesel residues were extracted from the fire debris using hexane and diethylether as extraction solvents under ultrasonication. Gas Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to identify the major compounds from standard and burnt diesel. Diethylether extracted higher amount of diesel residues from the burnt matrices than hexane. Tile and cotton proved to be the better matrices for the extraction in hexane solvent. However, diethylether present advantageous results and significantly detected the diesel residues in tile, wood and cotton. Findings of this study may help an investigator to select the suitable matrices and solvent for the extraction of diesel residues and may efficaciously contribute in the forensic arson investigation.