Applications of laser-ablation-inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry in chemical analysis of forensic evidence

Since the first coupling of laser-ablation inductively-coupled plasma to mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) in 1985, applications of this analytical technique in various scientific fields have been developed. LA-ICP-MS is an elemental and isotopic microanalytical technique that is increasingly used for routine analysis in forensic laboratories around the world due to its great discriminating power between samples and its capacity for analyzing solid evidence of small size. In addition, its quasi-non-destructive character is especially welcome for this type of sample.The main forensic applications of LA-ICP-MS have been developed for glass and paint samples. However, applications to other samples have also been reported [e.g., documents (ink and paper), fibers, cannabis, gems, Australian ocher and porcelain, brick stones, and gold and silver]. In the forensic field, the adjustment of instrumental analytical parameters, the study of interferences produced by fractionation and polyatomic ions, and the statistical treatment of data are considered of great importance. This review is intended as a practical, useful guide to help forensic chemists incorporate this attractive, powerful technique into their laboratories.

► A practical guide to introduce and help forensic scientists in the use of LA-ICP-MS.
► LA-ICP-MS is a versatile tool for the chemical investigation of physical evidence.
► The review is based on the most important articles published in the past 12 years.