Characterization of firearm discharge residue of ammunition of Indian origin by neutron activation analysis

Abstract

The firearm discharge residues of ammunition of Indian origin have been analysed by neutron activation analysis (NAA). Attention has been confined to the elements antimony, barium, copper and mercury. The element/element combinations detected in significant amounts in the peripheral and the outer ring regions of the bullet hole have been reported. While mercury can be added to the list of the elements usually sought for in specific cases, the interpretation of the copper values in or around the bullet hole as indicative of the use of a jacketed projectile calls for considerable caution.