The examination of items for the presence of transferred fibres still forms an important part in the scientific investigation of certain crimes. The forensic scientist is typically asked to assess whether there is any evidence of contact between clothing in cases involving assault or look for fibres that may have been transferred from a car to one of its occupants or vice versa.

Despite the fact that DNA analysis features in many forensic investigations there can be an over-reliance on the significance of this type of evidence and therefore the more traditional aspects of forensic science should not be overlooked.

In fibre examination cases, the presence of unusual, transferred fibres on another garment can be of vital evidential significance. In contrast, the presence of a blue cotton fibre would be deemed to be of no value given the abundance of that fibre type in the general population.

The presence of “foreign” or non-constituent fibres on garments has played a key role in many criminal convictions and whilst the scientific analysis and comparison of textile fibres is well-established there continues to be issues raised in relation to, for example, cross-contamination of items in the aftermath of a crime.

Bericon is able to offer a complete capability with regard to the analysis and, more importantly, the persistence and relevance of transferred fibres.