Integration of infrared spectroscopy and forensic entomology: a review of three research directions

Abstract

The advantages demonstrated by infrared spectroscopy (IR) in forensic science and entomology have aroused the interest of forensic entomologists and it has become a powerful analytical tool in the field of forensic entomology (FE) as it yields reliable results in insect identification, gut content analysis, distribution analyses, and developmental time estimations. In this paper, we summarize the current challenges and future perspectives of IR in three main research areas of FE, namely postmortem interval, carrion, and identification. With data from the past three decades (1998-2023), we report on the potential of IR to improve the efficiency of litigation cases and the scientific validity of FE laboratory research. Results show that although IR still has a long way to go and its accessibility needs to be improved, it possesses the potential to become a reliable research technique in FE.