Study of Characteristic Burn Patterns Formed by Three Different Accelerants on Plastered Wall

Abstract

One of the important aspect of arson investigation is to study the burn patterns or characteristics resulting from various accelerants. In India, the basic accelerants which are used to set fire to a scene include petrol, diesel and kerosene. This research article is based on the different types of burn patterns on plastered wall resulting from the use of three different accelerants which are being commonly used to set fire to a scene. Fire was initiated by spilling the accelerant on the plastered wall to simulate the scene of arson. An equal amount of each accelerant was taken for experimental purposes. The burn patterns provided by the three accelerants namely petrol, diesel and kerosene on the plastered wall shows some varying characteristics which help in differentiating the patterns caused by these accelerants. It is expected that results provided by this research will help the arson investigators in the investigation process.