Analysis of friction ridge evidence for trace amounts of paracetamol in various pharmaceutical industries by Raman spectroscopy

AbstractThe detection of potentially harmful substances as well as those dangerous to life is a multifaceted challenge. On the one hand, it can directly save lives, on the other hand, it can help and improve the work of the police, increasing effectiveness of the investigation. The research carried out within the framework of this study is primarily aimed at identifying paracetamol in fingerprints, taking into account situations of direct contact of a person with paracetamol chronically or in a single high dose. The identification procedure presented, using Raman spectroscopy, aims to rapidly identify the xenobiotic after ingestion by the person - requires touching the tablet with the fingers, which we can name as touch evidence in forensic science investigation. In addition, the authors focus on the effect of additives present in drugs containing paracetamol as the main active ingredient. The results of the screening obtained will allow us to analyze the composition of drugs in terms of potentially toxic substances and their impact on the physicochemical activity of the active substance itself. The research methodology developed also allows for the quick detection of other substances dangerous to life and health, such as amphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, or morphine. In addition to the preventive function, it is also a new solution in the field of forensic methods.