Forensic textile damage analysis: recent advances

Abstract

Textiles damage analysis is an invaluable tool in forensic investigations and can be used to help resolve cases of stabbings, shootings, and sexual assaults. It also has the potential to resolve arson attacks and “acid attacks”. Here, the literature is explored in order to review research relating to blunt force damage, stab and slash cuts, the phenomenon of falsification of evidence in sexual assaults, projectiles damage, and the effect of decomposition upon textiles damage, among others. It is clear that there is a paucity of research in the area, but where the research has been carried out, it has been informative and impactful. However, there are areas that need further work, including a better understanding of normal wear and tear, and the potential for chemicals to cause textiles damage. One area that is in a significant need of further work is the development of a robust interpretational framework.