This response from the SWGMAT Fiber Subgroup is not all inclusive of all the 

relevant literature in the field of Forensic Fiber Examinations 

RDT&E IWG Fiber Analysis Question List

1. What is the literature on the transfer and persistence of fiber evidence? 

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Recovery Guidelines http://www.fbi.gov/aboutus/lab/forensic-science-communications/fsc/april1999/houcktoc.htm

-SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examination Guidelines http://www.fbi.gov/aboutus/lab/forensic-science-communications/fsc/april1999/houcktoc.htm

-SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examiner Training Guide

http://www2.fbi.gov/hq/lab/fsc/backissu/april2005/standards/SWGMAT_fiber_training_p

rogram.pdf

- Pounds-C-A; Smalldon-K-W. The Transfer of Fibres Between Clothing Materials 

During Simulated Contacts and their Persistence During Wear. Part II - Fibre Persistence.

J-FORENSIC-SCI-SOC; 1975; 

V15 (1); P29-37

Taking Locards exchange principle for the basis of this experiment, the authors examined 

garments made of wool, acrylic, a wool/nylon blend and a cotton lab coat and tested the 

effect of pressure, recipient garment and repeated contact passes for transference of 

fibers. The size of the fibers transferred also led to conclusions concerning the breakage 

of fibers under pressure and the likelihood of transference.

- Pounds-C-A; Smalldon-K-W. The Transfer of Fibres Between Clothing Materials 

During Simulated Contacts and their Persistence During Wear. Part 1 Fibre Transference.

J-FORENSIC-SCI-SOC; 1975; V15 (1); P17-27

Independent of fiber size or type, the persistence of fibers is related to the time of wear 

and generally decreases quickly in the first hour. After four hours only 3-18% of the 

transferred fibers remained in the experiment.

- Grieve-M-C; Dunlop-J; Haddock-P-S. Transfer Experiments with Acrylic Fibres

 FORENSIC-SCI-INT; 1989; V40 (3); March; P267-277

Some simple experiments on the transfer of acrylic fibres simulating real life conditions 

are described. The transfer to, and persistence of these fibres on clothing and seating and 

their secondary transfer under different circumstances was investigated. In all instances 

the donor fibres were from a red cardigan involved in a homicide case. Interpretation of 

the case work findings was supported by experimental results. Fibres were shown to 

persist on seats/car seats despite secondary contacts after their original deposition. 

Caution is advisable when interpreting the transfer of a very low number of recovered 

fibres. The fibres were also shown to persist on a variety of garments after they had been 

washed or dry-cleaned.

- Jackson-G; Lowrie-C-N. Secondary Transfer of Fibres
TECH-NOTE FSL CHORLEY; 1988; No610; April; P1-16

The results of an extensive series of experiments designed to investigate secondary 

transfer of fibres are summarised in this report. The numbers and the persistence of 

transferred fibres are detailed for a variety of garments and seats used in various 

combinations of contact. Secondary transfer of fibres via clothing, and tertiary transfer of 

fibres via seats and clothing are shown to be of very limited significance; secondary 

transfer via seats is shown to be of potential significance

- Palmer-R; Burch-H-J. The Population, Transfer and Persistence of Fibres on the Skin of 

Living Subjects SCI-JUST; 2009; V49 (4); December; P259-264

Fibres were transferred to the bare arms of living subjects and their persistence 

determined at intervals up to 24 h, during which normal daily activity was undertaken.

Decay curves showed an initial rapid loss followed by an apparently exponential decay. 

No target fibres remained after 24 h. The length distribution showed a shift towards 

shorter fibre lengths and the differential shedding results for a polyester/cotton mixture 

showed a small bias towards the retention of cotton. The population of coloured fibres on 

bare skin was classified according to perceived colour, length, generic class and presence 

or absence of delustrant.

- Siegel-J-A. Evidential Value of Textile Fibre - Transfer and Persistence of Fibres

FORENSIC-SCI-REV; 1997; V9 (2); December; P81-96

AB: The most common trace evidence encountered in forensic science today probably 

comes in the form of fibres. Fibre evidence occurs in probably a quarter of all cases 

involving trace evidence and most crime laboratories characterise textile fibres as a 

matter of routine. Although much research has been carried out into the characterisation 

and comparison of fibres, relatively little work has been done to determine the 

significance of fibre evidence. Here, a summary is presented of the studies of fibre 

transfer and persistence and the significance of fibre evidence. This will help fibre 

examiners to better interpret evidence in criminal cases where there has been transfer of 

fibres between victims and perpetrators.

- Bennett-S; Roux-C; Robertson-J The Significance of Fibre Transfer and Persistence - A 

Case Study PROCEEDINGS-TRACE-EVIDENCE-SYMPOSIUM-CLEARWATERBEACH-FLORIDA; 2007; August

This paper describes the investigation of a murder case in which the only trace 

evidence found as a result of the examination of the scene was a number of coarse, dark 

fibres which were stuck to the soles of the victim's shoes. Nine of the fibres were grey 

polypropylene, 12 were blue polypropylene, and 50 were black polyester. These fibres 

were found to originate from the carpet of the suspect's vehicle, with almost all other 

possible sources of the fibres being eliminated. At trial, the main issue was the 

persistence of the fibres on the soles of the victim's shoes. Tests were carried out in order 

to investigate the factors affecting the transfer and persistence of carpet fibres to shoe 

soles. The results of these experiments formed a vital part of the prosecution's case.

- Scott-H-G. The Persistence of Fibres Transferred During Contact of Automobile 

Carpets and Clothing Fabrics J-CAN-SOC-FORENSIC-SCI; 1985; V18 (4); P185-199
Transferred fibres constitute an important form of trace evidence. In this study, the aim 

was to assess the likelihood or frequency of transfer of vehicle carpet fibres by simulating 

transfers in vehicles fitted with a number of different types of fabric. There was no 

correlation between increased contact pressure and the number of fibres transferred. The 

more textured fibres (corduroy and wool crepe) picked up the most number of fibres. 

Carpeting made from nylon/acrylic shed the most fibres, and carpeting from newer 

vehicles shed more fibres than carpeting from older vehicles. Consideration was also 

given to the percentage of nylon and polypropylene carpet fibres which could still be

recovered after recipient garments had been worn during normal activity. It was found 

that the polypropylene fibres were more persistent than the nylon fibres, with textured 

fabrics retaining more of the fibres than smoother fabrics. Data regarding the type of fibre 

used by some of the main vehicle manufacturers were collected in order to assist

investigators examining cases involving this type of evidence.

-Palmer, R., Banks, M. The secondary transfer of fibres from head hair. 2005. Science & 

Justice, 45(3), 123-128. 

In this study, the effects of fibre type, hair style, time, and fibre persistence on the 

secondary transfer of mask fibres to pillowcases, via head hair, were studied. Volunteers 

with a range of hair styles and masks consisting of different fibre compositions were used 

in the study. Fibres from the masks were found to transfer from donor subjects to the 

pillowcases up to 14 nights after the mask had been worn. On average, the number of 

secondarily transferred fibres found decreased with time; however, this decrease 

appeared to be more 'linear' in nature rather than an exponential decay. The greatest 

degree of secondary transfer occurred with cotton, followed by acrylic, then wool. In a

primary transfer/persistence experiment with a 50% acrylic/50% wool mask, wool was 

found to persist in the hair more readily than acrylic. The results also showed that the 

greatest degree of secondary transfer occurred via short, straight and long, straight hair, 

with no clear pattern emerging between medium-length hair (both straight and curly) and 

with long, curly hair. The implications of these findings for the assessment and 

interpretation of casework are considered along with data obtained from related studies. 

- Robertson-J; Roux-C From the Crime Scene to the Laboratory - Transfer, Persistence 

and Recovery of Fibres (Chapter 5.1)

FORENSIC-EXAMINATION-OF-FIBRES-2ND-ED-ED-J-ROBERTSON-AND-MGRIEVE-PUB-TAYLOR-&-FRANCIS; 1999; P89-100

Locard's theory of every contact leaving a trace forms the basis for the forensic 

examination of trace evidence. Fibres constitute an important form of trace evidence, and 

their transfer depends on various factors such as the area of the surfaces in contact, the 

number of contacts, contact pressure, fibre composition and fabric texture, and the nature

of the recipient surface. The number of fibres lost from a surface after transference, and 

the rate of loss, depend on factors such as the time between transference and examination 

and the attachment of the transferred fibres to the surface. In order to maximise the 

potential of fibre trace evidence, it is important that the correct method of retrieval is 

used. Among the methods discussed in this chapter are tape-lifting and vacuuming, each 

of which should be considered based on the circumstances of the case. Consideration is 
also given to the matter of contamination and how the risk of fibre trace evidence being 

contaminated can be minimised.

Additional references:

Akulova, V., Vasiliauskiene, D., Talaliene, D. (2002) Further insights into the persistence 

of transferred fibres on outdoor clothes, Science & Justice; 42(3) 165-171.

Ashcroft, CM., Evans, S., Tebbett, IR., (1988) The persistence of fibres in head hair, 

Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 28; 289-293

Bresee, RR., Annis, PA. (1991) Fibre transfer and the influence of fabric softener; 

Journal of Forensic Sciences; 36(6); 1699-1713.

Burch, HJ. (2008) The transfer and persistence of fibres on bare skin. Thesis submitted to 

Centre of Forensic Science, University of Strathclyde

Chewning, DD., Deaver, KL., Christensen, AM. (2008) Persistence of fibers on ski 

masks during transit and processing; Forensic Science Communications; 10(3)

Cordiner, SJ., Stringer, P., Wilson, PD. (1985) Fibre diameter and the transfer of wool 

fibres; Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 25; 425-426.

Coxon, A., Grieve, M., Dunlop, J. (1992) A method of assessing the fibre shedding 

potential of fabrics; Journal of Forensic Sciences; 32(2); 151-158.

Crocker, EJ (1996) Fibre transfer and persistence: A case study; An International 

Symposium on the Forensic Examination of Trace Evidence in Transition

Cwiklik, C. (1999) An evaluation of the significance of transfers of debris; criteria for 

association and exclusion Journal of forensic Sciences; 44(6); 1136-1150

Deedrick, DW. (2000) Hairs, Fibers, Crime and Evidence, Part 2; Fiber Evidence, 

Forensic Science Communications; 2(3).

Deedrick, D. (1998) Searching for the source – Car carpet fibres in the OJ Simpson case; 

FSS; Contact; 26; 14-16.

De Wael, K., Gason F. (2008) Microfibre transfer experiments; Global Forensic Science 

Today; January 2008 (4); 31-37

Grieve, MC., Biermann, TW. (1997) Wool fibres – transfer to vinyl and leather vehicle 

seats and some observations on their secondary transfer; Science & Justice; 37(1); 31-38

Grieve, MC., Biermann, TW. (1997) The population of coloured textile fibres on outdoor 

surfaces; Science & Justice; 37 (4); 231-240
Jackson G, Lowrie, CN. (1987) Secondary transfer of fibres; Canadian Society of 

Forensic Science Journal; 1987; 20(3); 142.

James, D.S. Fibre mapping – A case study. Science and Justice; 2005: 45/4(227).

Kidd and Robertson. The Transfer of Textile Fibres During Simulated Contacts. JFSS 

1982; 22:301-308.

Krauss, W., Doderer, U.: Fibre persistence under open-air conditions. Trace Evidence 

Symposium, Interpretation Trace Evidence: The Present and Future. Clearwater Beach, 

Florida, USA, 2009. http://projects.nfstc.org/trace

Krauss, W., Doderer, U.: Fibre persistence on skin under open-air conditions. Global 

Forensic Science Today (9) (2009) 11 – 16. www.global-forensic-science-today.net

Krauss, W., Simmerlein, N., Barogh, BS., Stritesky, K (2007) Suicide or homicide? A 

case report involving textile fibre investigations; Global Forensic Science Today; May 

2007 (2); 16-18

Krauss, W., Hildebrand, U. (1995) Fiber persistence on garments under open-air 

conditions; Third meeting of the European Fibres Group, 1-5; Figures 1-13

Krauss, W., Hildebrand U. (1996) Fiber persistence on skin under open-air conditions; 

International Symposium on the Forensic Examination of Trace Evidence in Transition

Lowrie, CN, Jackson, G. (1991) Recovery of transferred fibres; Forensic Science 

International; 50(1); 111-119

Marshall, L., Griffin, R.M.E., Robinson, K., Recovery of transferred carpet fibres from 

shoes, their persistence on the outer surface and the value of fibres recovered from the 

inner surfaces of the shoes. 2003. Forensic Science International, 136(1), 123-124. 

Massonnet, G., Schiesser, M., Champod, C.: Population of textile fibres on white t-shirts.

Proceedings of the European Fibres Group Meeting, Dundee (1998) 76 - 80

McKenna, FJ., Sherwin, JC. (1975) A simple and effective method for collecting contact 

evidence; Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 15; 277-280.

Merciani, P., Monard Sermier, F., Buzzini, P., Massonnet, G., Taroni, F. A study of the 

cross transfer of fibers. 2003. Forensic International, 136(1), 123.

Mitchell, EJ., Holland, D. (1979) An unusual case of identification of transferred fibres; 

Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 19(1); 23-26

Mitchell, EJ (1982) Fibre transfer – Useful evidence from a bullet wound; Journal of the 

Forensic Science Society; 22; 241-242
Moore, JE., Jackson, G., Firth, M. (1986) Movement of fibres between working areas as a 

result of routine examination of garments; Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 26; 

433-440.

Palmer R (1998) The retention and recovery of transferred fibers following washing of 

recipient clothing; Journal of Forensic Sciences; 43(3); 502-504.

Palmer, R., Oliver, S.: The population of coloured fibres in human head hair. Sci. Justice 

44 (2) (2004) 83 – 88.

Palmer, R., Chinherende, V. (1996) A target fiber study using cinema and car seats as 

recipient items; Journal of Forensic Sciences; 41(5); 802-803.

Parybyk, AE., Lokan, RJ (1986) A study of the numerical distribution of fibres 

transferred from blended products; Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 26; 61-68

Pounds, C. A., Smalldon, K. W.: The Transfer of fibres between clothing materials 

during simulated contacts and their persistence during wear: Part III – a preliminary 

investigation of the mechanisms involved. J. Forensic Sci. Soc. 15 (3) (1975) 197 – 207.

Robertson, J., Lloyd, AK. (1984) Observations in the redistribution of textile fibres; 

Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 1984; 24; 3-7

Robertson, J (1987) Unique evidence of association through fibre transfer? A case 

history; Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal; 20(3); 139

Robertson, J, Lim, M. (1987) Fibre transfer and persistence onto car seats and seatbelts; 

Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal; 20(3); 140-141

Robertson, J., Olaniyan, D. (1986) Effect of garment cleaning on the recovery and 

redistribution of transferred fibres; Journal of the Forensic Sciences; 31(1); 73-78.

Robertson, J., Kidd, C.B.M., Parkinson, H.M.P. The Persistence of Textile Fibres 

Transferred During Simulated Contacts. JFSS 1982; 22:353-360.

Robertson, J., Roux, C., (2000) Fibers; Transfer and Persistence; Encyclopedia of 

Forensic Sciences, 834-838.

Roux,C., Chable, J., Margot, P. Fiber transfer experiments onto car seats. Science and

Justice 1996; 36: 143-151.

Roux, C., Langdon, S., Waight, D., Robertson, J. (1999) The transfer and persistence of 

automotive carpet fibres on shoe soles, Science & Justice; 39(4); 239-251
Roux, C., Margot, P. (1997) An attempt to assess the relevance of textile fibres on 

outdoor surfaces; Science & Justice; 37(4); 225-230.

Salter, M. T., Cook, R., Jackson, A. R.: Differential shedding from blended fabrics. 

Forensic Sci. Int. 33 (3) (1987) 155 - 164

Salter, M. T., Cook, R.: Transfer of fibres to head hair, their persistence and retrieval. 

Forensic Sci. Int. 81 (2 – 3) (1996) 211 – 221.

Spencer, R.: Significant fibre evidence recovered from the clothing of a homicide victim 

after exposure to the elements for twenty-nine days. J. Forensic Sci. 39 (3) (1994) 854 –

859.

Taupin, JM. (1996) Hair and fiber transfer in an abduction case – Evidence from different 

levels of trace evidence transfer; Journal of Forensic Sciences; 41(4); 697-699

Tebbett, IR., Ashcroft, CA. (1987) The persistence of fibres in human hair; Canadian 

Society of Forensic Science Journal; 20(3); 141

Was-Gubala, J (1999) Single transferred fibres as evidence; Z Zagadnien Nauk 

Sadowijch; 39; 133-142

Was-Gubala, J.,: A population study of fibres found on bus seats in Cracow. Proceedings 

of the 8th European Fibres Group (2000).

Watt, R., Roux, C., Robertson, J. The influence of front loading and top loading washing 

machines on the persistence, redistribution and secondary transfer of textile fibres during 

laundering. 2004. Proceedings of the 17th International Symposium on the Forensic 

Sciences, Australian & New Zealand Forensic Science Society, Wellington. 

Watt, R., Roux, C., Robertson, J.: The population of coloured textile fibres in domestic 

washing machines. Sci. Justice 45 (2) (2005) 75 – 83.

2. What literature describes the optical, morphological/structural, physical or 

chemical properties and features useful for fiber examinations and their variation? 

-Robertson and Grieve Forensic Examination of Fibres second edition 1999

-Identification of Vegetable Fibers. Caitling and Grayson. 1982, CRC Press.

-Identification of Textile Fibers. Houck, ed.2009

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Recovery Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber 

Examination Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examiner Training Guide

-ASTM Standard Guide for Microscopical Examination of Textile Fibers E228-10 (taken 

from SWGMAT guidelines)

Identification of Textile Fibers (Luniak), 1973
Identification of Textile Materials (Textile Institute) 1975

Microscopy of Animal Textile Fibers (Wildman) 1954

Understanding Textiles (Collier, Bide and Tortora) 6

th ed 2001

-Akrap-I; Mrsic-G; Zupanic-S; Vujasinovic-E Forensic Approach to Aramid Fibre 

Identification PROCEEDINGS-4TH-INTERNATIONAL-TEXTILE,-CLOTHINGAND-DESIGN-CONFERENCE.-MAGIC-WORLD-OF-TEXTILES,-OCTOBER-5THTO-8TH,-2008,-DUBROVNIK,-CROATIA; 2008; October; P42-47

As fibre and textile evidence is often encountered in forensic casework, it is important 

that the forensic fibre examiner is familiar with the different types of fibres - common 

and rare - on the market. This may prove challenging because the textile market is always 

changing, with new fibres, finishes, colours and shapes being produced. This paper looks 

at aramide fibres, a high-performance fibre type rarely encountered in forensic casework.

- Houck-M-M Forensic Fibre Examination and Analysis

FORENSIC-SCI-REV; 2005; V17 (1); January; P29-49

Although it is incorrectly perceived that fibre evidence has relatively little evidential 

value, textiles are a valuable form of trace evidence because of their ubiquity and their 

many variations. Textile fibres are transferred between surfaces and persist on different 

surfaces for different periods of time. The distinctiveness of fibres is enhanced by their 

distribution and use. Numerous analytical methods have been applied to forensic fibre 

examination, although colour analysis is not universally used in forensic laboratories 

despite the millions of colour shades possible. Numerous transfer studies have 

demonstrated the rarity of finding unrelated fibres at random with the same microscopic

characteristics and optical properties. Casework examples also illustrate the usefulness of 

textile fibre analysis for establishing links between people and places in criminal 

investigations. Further research should be carried out in order to support and verify the 

conclusions reached from the analysis of textile fibres. 

-Houck, Inter-comparison of Unrelated Fiber Evidence, Forensic Science International, 

2003.

Compared 2083 fibers collected from items of evidence in 20 unrelated cases, for a total 

of 2, 168,403 total comparisons. No two fibers were found to exhibit the same 

microscopic characteristics and optical properties.

-Grieve, Biermann, The Individuality of Fibres Used the Provide Forensic Evidence- Not 

All Blue Polyesters Are the Same, Science and Justice, 2005.

Compared fibers from 255 samples for a total of 32, 385 comparisons. 9 total pairs could 

not be distinguished, 6 of those pairs were found the same brand name. Only 3 random 

matches were found.

-Grieve, Fibres and Their Examination in Forensic Science, Forensic Science Progress, 

1990.
Discusses transfer, persistence, and recovery; fiber identification, fiber comparison and 

evidential value. Separates fibers into three categories: common fibers, uncommon fibers 

and everything else. Summarizes other articles- 

―Cook & Wilson- searched 335 items of clothing for five fibre types indistinguishable 

from those found in four popular brands of garment made from commonly encountered 

fibers. A total of only 11 matching fibers, nine of which were 1 type (blue wool) were

found ten garments, with a maximum of 2 fibers on any one item. The fibers were 

examined by comparison microscopy (brightfield and fluorescence), MSP and TLC.‖ 

―Jackson & Cook- the front seats of 108 vehicles were examined for the presence of two 

common target fiber types. These were red wool from ladies pullovers offered by a 

major chain store and brown polyesters from popular make of men‘s trousers. 8436 

―suspect‖ fibers were recovered, 8 were indistinguishable from the brown polyester, 37 

from the red wool. The same methods of comparison were employed. The maximum 

number of fibers (red wool) found on any seat was 13; in any one vehicle 20. Matches 

with both types of target fibers were found in only one vehicle.‖

Other articles demonstrating the high degree of polymorphism amongst common fibers 

include:

Barna, C. E. and Stoeffler, S. F. A new method for cross sectioning single fibers, Journal 

of Forensic Sciences (1987) 32:761-767. 

Biermann, T.W. and Grieve, M.C. A computerized data base of mail order garments: A 

contribution toward estimating the frequency of fiber types found on clothing. Part 1: The 

system and its operation. 1996. Forensic Science International, 77, 65-73. 

Biermann, T.W. and Grieve, M.C. A computerized data base of mail order garments: A 

contribution toward estimating the frequency of fiber types found on clothing. Part 2: The 

content of the data bank and its statistical evaluation. 1996. Forensic Science 

International, 77, 75-91. 

Biermann, T.W. and Grieve, M.C. A computerized data base of mail order garments: A 

contribution toward estimating the frequency of fiber types found on clothing. Part 3: The 

content of the data bank-is it representative. 1998. Forensic Science International, 95, 

117-131. 

Bruschweiler, W. and Grieve, M.C. A study on the random distribution of a red acrylic 

target fiber. 1997. Science and Justice, 37, 85-89. 

Bruschweiler, W. and Schoch, H. Thermal microscopy of fibres—A methodological 

addition to fibre analysis, Archiv fuer Kriminologie (1982) 169:89-98. 
Cantrell, S., Roux, C., Maynard, P., Robertson, J. A textile fibre survey as an aid to the 

interpretation of fibre evidence in the Sydney region. 2001. Forensic Science 

International, 123, 48-53. 

Craven, B. J. Cross-sectional measurement of cellulose acetate fibers using scanning 

electron microscopy and image analysis, Microscope (1993) 41:115-117. 

Cresswell, S.L., Cunningham, D., NicDaeid, N., Textile survey of cinema seats in 

Glasgow. 2003. Forensic Science International, 136(1), 117. 

Gaudette, B. The forensic aspects of textile fiber examination. In: Forensic Science 

Handbook (Vol. 2). Ed., R. Saferstein. Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, 

1988. 

Grabar, D. G. and Haessly, R. Identification of synthetic fibers by micro fusion methods, 

Analytical Chemistry (1956) 28:1586-1589. 

Grieve, M. C. The use of melting point and refractive index determination to compare 

colourless polyester fibres, Forensic Science International (1983) 22:31-48. 

Grieve, M.C., and Biermann, T.W. The individuality of blue polyester fibers used to 

provide forensic evidence. 2003. Forensic Science International, 136(1), 121-122. 

Grieve, M.C. and Biermann, T. The population of coloured textile fibers on outdoor 

surfaces. 1997. Science and Justice, 37, 231-239. 

Grieve, M.C., Biermann, T.W., Davignon, M. The occurrence and individuality of orange 

and green cotton fibres. 2003. Science & Justice, 43(1), 5-22.

Grieve, M., Biermann, T., Schaub, K., The individuality of fibres used to provide forensic 

evidence – not all blue polyesters are the same. 2005. Science & Justice, 45(1), 13-28.

Hall, D. Practical Fiber Identification. Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, 1982

Hartshorne, A. W. and Laing, D. K. The identification of polyolefin fibres by infrared 

spectroscopy and melting point determination, Forensic Science International (1984) 

26:45-52. 

Hartshorne, A., Wild, F. M., and Babb, N. L. The discrimination of cellulose di- and 

triacetate fibres by solvent test and melting point determination, Journal of the Forensic 

Science Society (1991) 31:457-461. 

Heuse, O. and Adolf, F. P. Non-destructive identification of textile fibres by interference 

microscopy, Journal of the Forensic Science Society (1982) 22:103- 122. 
Hemsley, D. A., ed. Applied Polymer Light Microscopy. Elsevier Applied Science, New 

York, 1989.

Home, J.M. and Dudley, R.J. A summary of data obtained from a collection of fibers 

from casework material. 1980. Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 20, 253-261. 

Kelly, E. and Griffin, R.M.E. A target fiber study on seats in public houses. 1998. 

Science and Justice, 38, 39-44. 

Kubic, T. A., King, J. B., and DuBey, I. S. Forensic analysis of colorless textile fibers by 

fluorescence microscopy, Microscope (1983) 31:213-222. 

Lloyd, J. B. F. Forensic significance of fluorescent brighteners: Their qualitative TLC 

characterisation in small quantities of fibre and detergents, Journal of the Forensic 

Science Society (1977) 17:145-152. 

Marname, R., Elliot, D., Coulson, S. A pilot study to determine the background 

population of foreign fibre groups on a cotton/ polyester T- shirt. 2006. Science & 

Justice, 46(4), 215-220.

Mauersberger, H. R. Matthew's Textile Fibers. 6th ed., John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New 

York, 1954.

Merkel, R. S. A scheme for fiber identification with emphasis on new polyacrylic, 

polyamide, polyester and cellulosic fibers, American Dyestuff Report (1960) 49:13-25

Palenik, S. and Fitzsimons, C. Fiber cross sections: Part I, Microscope (1990) 38:187-

195. 

Palenik, S. and Fitzsimons, C. Fiber cross sections: Part II, Microscope (1990) 38:313-

320. 

Palmer, R. and Chinherende, V. A target fiber study using cinema and car seats as 

recipient items. 1996. Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 41, 802-803. 

Palmer, R., and Oliver, S. The population of coloured fibres in human head hair. 2004. 

Science & Justice, 44(2), 83-88. 

Praeger, S. S. Selective solvents for analyzing textile fiber mixtures, American Dyestuff 

Report (1957) 46:497-498. 

Roux, C. and Margot, P. The population of textile fibers on car seats. 1997. Science and 

Justice, 37, 25-30. 
Sieminski, M. A. A note on the measurement of birefringence in fibers, Microscope 

(1975) 23:35-36. 

Stratmann, M. The solubility characteristics of fibres, Textile Industries (1970) 72:13-19. 

Valaskovic, G. A. Polarized light in multiple birefringent domains: A study of the Herzog 

Effect, Microscope (1991) 39:269-286. 

Was-Gubala, J. Comparative population studies of fibres secured in Poland, Czech 

Republic and Germany, Zagadnien-Nauk-Sadowych, 2004, 60, 58-77. 

Watt, R., Roux, C., Robertson J. The population of coloured textile fibres in domestic 

washing machines. 2005. Science & Justice, 45(2), 75-83.

Wiggins, K.G. and Allard, J.E. The evidential value of fabric car seats and car seat 

covers. 1987. Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 27, 93-101. 

Wiggins, K., Drummond, P., Hicks Champod, T. A study in relation to the random 

distribution of four fibre types on cloting (incorporating a review of previous target 

fubres studies. 2004. Science & Justice, 44(3), 141-148. 

3. What is the literature on the classification of fibers, dyes, and pigments? 

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Recovery Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber 

Examination Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examiner Training Guide

-ASTM Standard Guide for Microscopical Examination of Textile Fibers E228-10 (taken 

from SWGMAT fiber guidelines)

-ASTM Standard Guide for Forensic Examination of Non-Reactive Dyes in Textile 

Fibers by Thin-Layer Chromatography E2227-02 (reapproved 2008) taken from 

SWGMAT fiber guidelines

- EFG Best Practices Guide

-- Abrahart. Dyes and their Intermediates. New York: Chemical Publishing, 1977.

Chapters covering:

the classification of dyes

intermediates

azo dyes

anthraquinone dyes

Disperse Dyes

Indigoid, Thioindigoid and Sulphur Dyes

Triarylmethane and Related Dyes

Miscellaneous Dyes

Reactive Dyes

Pigments

The manufacture of Intermediates, Dyes and Pigments

Stilbene dyes and Fluorescent Brightening Agents
Grieve MC, Dunlop J, Haddock P. 1990. An Investigation of Known Red, Blue, and 

Black Dyes Used in the Coloration of Cotton Fibers. Journal of Forensic Science. 

35(2):301-315.

Grieve MC, Dunlop J, Haddock P. 1988. An Assessment of the value of Blue, Red, and 

Black cotton Fibers as Target Fibers in Forensic Science Investigations. Journal of 

Forensic Science. 33(6): 1332-1344.

Goodpaster, J.V. and E.A. Liszewski. 2009. Forensic analysis of dyed textile fibers. 

Anal Bioanal Chem 394:2009–2018.

- Biermann-T-W. Blocks of Colour IV: The Evidential Value of Blue and Red Cotton 

Fibres SCI-JUST; 2007; V47 (2); September; P68-87

Light and fluorescence microscopy, UV/Vis microspectrophotometry and fluorescence 

microspectroscopy were used to record the degree of fluorescence and spectral variation 

in samples of blue and red cotton fibres, with particular attention being paid to the 

recurrence of certain spectral patterns. The importance of spectral information in the UV 

range is re-emphasised, as is the importance of colour in the forensic comparison of 

cotton fibres. Usually, fibres with frequently-observed spectral patterns will be of less 

evidental value because the potential number of sources will be greater. Also, blue and 

red cotton fibres are frequently encountered in forensic casework. Combining light 

microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and UV/Vis microspectrophotometry can give a 

high power of discrimination, enhancing the evidential value of red and blue cotton fibres 

in fibre transfer cases.

- Grieve-M-C; Biermann-T-W; Schaub-K. The Individuality of Fibres Used to Provide 

Forensic Evidence - Not All Blue Polyesters Are The Same SCI-JUST; 2005; V45 (1); 

P13-28

Target fibre studies, population studies and research into 'blocks of colour' have 

confirmed the polymorphism of textile fibres - especially man-made fibres - and have 

demonstrated that when a questioned fibre is believed to have a specific putative source, 

the chance that it came from another source by coincidence is very small. A previous 

study by Houck (Forensic Science International 2003; 135: 146-149) demonstrated that 

no coincidental matching fibres were recovered from items of clothing examined during 

the investigation of 20 unrelated crimes (over 2 million comparisons). This study goes 

further, using blue polyester fibres to show that, even within a narrow segment of the 

entire general fibre population, many examples of a specific colour/type of man-made 

fibre obtained from random sources can be compared and the chance of any two being 

identical is remote. This work supports the evidential value of transferred fibres.

- Grieve-M-C; Deck-S. Black Cellulosic Fibres - A "Bete Noir"?

SCI-JUST; 2002; V42 (2); P81-88

In certain fibre transfer cases, black viscose fibres may be recovered. However, their 

evidential value may be questioned due to the inherent difficulties associated with their 

comparison and identification, given the frequency of such fibres in the general 

population. Other problems associated with the examination of such fibres include the 
assessment of the degree of delustrant present, and discriminating between viscose and 

modal. In this study, samples of black, spun-dyed viscose/modal were obtained from 

manufacturers for examination. Casework fibres were also examined in order to assess 

the degree to which the samples could be differentiated from one another. Brief 

consideration is also given to the identification of other types of black cellulosic fibres.

- Grieve-M. The Occurrence & Individuality of Green & Orange Cotton Fibres

PROC-EUROPEAN-FIBRES-GROUP; 2002; V10; June; P98-102

Studies of fibre populations have shown that the random occurrence of cotton fibres of 

certain colours is low and, therefore, of considerable evidential value. The aim of this 

study was to examine cotton fibres of relatively uncommon colours (green and orange) to 

demonstrate that the overall category can be broken into many smaller spectral groups

occurring with different frequencies, based on microspectrophotometric analysis of the 

dyes used. The results obtained confirm the evidential value of orange and green cotton 

fibres in fibre transfer cases.

Grieve M.C. , Griffin R.M.E, Malone R. Characteristic dye absorption peaks found in the 

FTIR spectra of coloured acrylic fibres, Science and Justice-JFSS, Jan 1998, 38/1 (27-

37).

Hartshorne, A. W. and Laing, D. K. Microspectrofluorimetry of fluorescent dyes and 

brighteners on single textile fibres, Part 1: Fluorescence emission spectra, Forensic 

Science International (1991) 51:203-220. 

Hartshorne, A. W. and Laing, D. K. Microspectrofluorimetry of fluorescent dyes and 

brighteners on single textile fibres: Part 2. Colour measurements, Forensic Science 

International (1991) 51:221-237. 

Hartshorne, A. W. and Laing, D. K. Microspectrofluorimetry of fluorescent dyes and 

brighteners on single textile fibres: Part 3. Fluorescence decay phenomena, Forensic 

Science International (1991) 51:239-250. 

4. What is the literature on the variation, including regional and seasonal variation, of 

manufactured fibers and dyes/pigments? 

- Wiggins-K; Davis-E; Schennum-C; Drummond-P. An Investigation into Fibre Variation 

Across Garments GLOBAL-FORENSIC-SCIENCE-TODAY; 2008; NO. 6; P2-16

The aim of this project was to examine individual fibres sampled across garments in 

order to determine the extent of any variation in their properties. This work was limited to 

investigating colour variation across garments using microspectrophotometry. The 

garments studied were a green cotton sweater and a red acrylic sweater. The morphology 

and polymeric composition of the fibres in the red sweater were also examined in more 
detail using white light and fluorescence microscopy together with Fourier transform 

infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy.

- Holness-J-A; Wiggins-K. A Further Study of Dye Batch Variation in Textile and 

Carpet Fibres SCI-JUST; 2005; V45 (2); P93-96

Four sets of acrylic fibre samples were obtained from a company that dyes fabrics for the 

fashion industry. Between seven and ten different batches of fibres constituted each set. 

Comparison microscopy, visible and UV range microspectrophotometry and thin layer 

chromatography (TLC) were used to compare the dyes on each batch of fibres within the 

sets. Only one of the four sets exhibited variation when both microscopical and analytical 

techniques were used. In addition, two further sets of samples had been obtained from a 

company that produces carpets for the car industry. The first set consisted of 26 batches 

of acid-dyed orange nylon fibres. The second consisted of 21 batches of acid-dyed, 

mustard-coloured nylon and direct-dyed brown viscose fibres blended together. When the 

first set was viewed under UV light, one batch had more pale orange fibres present, and 

they fluoresced more brightly than the other fibres. This could be due to the blending 

with a different dye batch of fibre or to poor dye uptake - the latter being more likely. 

When tested using visible and UV range microspectrophotometry and TLC, further dye 

batch variation was not detected. The second set was examined after separating the nylon 

and viscose fibres from each other. The nylon fibres were indistinguishable when a range 

of microscopical and analytical techniques were employed; however, the viscose fibres 

showed dye batch variation when TLC was used.

- Grieve-M-C; Biermann-T; Davignon-M. The Occurrence and Individuality of Orange 

and Green Cotton Fibres SCI-JUST; 2003; V43 (1); P5-22

UV-visible microspectrophotometric examination of orange and green cotton fibres 

revealed the degree of spectral variation in each colour. Particularly noteworthy was the 

recurrence of certain spectral patterns, particularly those which were associated with dyes 

often used in the manufacture of textiles. The importance of spectral information in the

UV-range is highlighted, as is the part played by colour in the forensic comparison of 

cotton fibres. It is usually the case that fibres which produce commonly seen spectral 

patterns are of lower evidential value, with fibres having less common spectral patterns 

being of greater evidential value. A study in which fibres were collected from 112 seats 

in the German Federal Police Office confirmed the low frequency of occurrence of 

orange and green cotton fibres in the general fibre population. Such a low frequency, 

combined with the high discrimination power of microspectrophotometry, gives such 

fibre types considerable evidential value in cases where fibre transfer evidence is used.

5. What literature describes the various environmental effects, such as temperature 

and sunlight exposure, on various fiber types? 

-Atlas of fibre fracture and damage to textiles (Hearle, Lomas and Cooke) 1998

-Quality Assessment of Textiles-Damage Detection by Microscopy (Karl Mahall) 2003
- Trimboli, A.R., A.A. Wells, J.J. Yiu, H.M. Taylor, A.R. Stefan, B.L. Clelland, S.L. 

Morgan, "Forensic Studies of Dye and Fiber Degradation During Environmental 

Exposure by Microspectrophotometry and Capillary Electrophoresis/Mass 

Spectrometry," paper B5 at the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, 59th Annual 

Meeting, San Antonio, TX, 21 February 2007. This presentation showed that exposure 

to various environmental effects – sunlight, washing, etc did change the color and 

appearance of fabrics and fibers.

-Parker, J and M. Valadez ―Environmental Effects on the Fluroescent Properties of 

Colorless Polyester Fibers‖ poster at 2009 TES

As environmental exposure time increased, the fibers from the fabric samples exhibited 

an overall decrease in fluorescence, both visually and spectroscopically. Several factors 

may give rise to a change in either the fluorescent intensity or color, including time of 

exposure, chemical composition of the fiber or additives, and the location of the fibers 

relative to the fabric.

Was-Gubala, J., Grzesiak, E. The kinetics of colour change in textiles and fibres treated 

with detergent solutions. Part II - Spectrophotometric measurements (2010) Science and 

Justice, 50 (2), pp. 55-58. 

Was-Gubala, J. The kinetics of colour change in textiles and fibres treated with detergent 

solutions. Part I-Colour perception and fluorescence microscopy analysis (2009) Science 

and Justice, 49 (3), pp. 165-169. 

Was-Gubała, J., Krauß, W. Damage caused to fibres by the action of two types of heat

(2006) Forensic Science International, 159 (2-3), pp. 119-126

Was-Gubała, J., Krauß, W. Textile damage caused by vapour cloud explosions (2004) 

Science and Justice - Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 44 (4), pp. 209-215. 

Was-Gubała, J., Krauß, W. Damage caused to fibres by vapour cloud explosions (2004) 

Forensic Science International, 141 (2-3), pp. 77-83. 

Was-Gubala, J., Salerno-Kochan, R. The biodegradation of the fabric of soldiers' 

uniforms (2000) Science and Justice - Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 40 (1), pp. 

15-20. 

Salerno-Kochan, R., Was-Gubala, J. Assessing the degree of biodegradation of wool in 

fabrics for military uniforms (1999) Przeglad Wlokienniczy, (6), pp. 3-8. 

Causin V., Marega C., Marigo A., Guzzini G. The effect of exposure to the elements on 

the forensic characterization by infrared spectroscopy of poly(ethylene terephthalate) 

fibers, JFS, July 26, 2005, 50/4 (887-893).
6. What published databases of fibers, dyes, pigments, and manufacturers are 

available for fiber analysis and comparison? 

- The Colour Index Third edition (print) online version http://www.colour-index.org/

- Biermann-T-W; Grieve-M-C A Computerized Data Base of Mail Order Garments A 

Contribution Toward Estimating the Frequency of Fibre Types Found in Clothing. Part2 

The Content of the Data Bank and Its Statistical Evaluation

FORENSIC-SCI-INT; 1996; V77(1/2); January; P75-91

- Biermann-T-W; Grieve-M-C A Computerized Data Base of Mail Order Garments A 

Contribution Toward Estimating the Frequency of Fibre Types Found in Clothing. Part 1 

The System and its Operation

FORENSIC-SCI-INT; 1996; V77(1/2); January; P65-73

7. What published instrumental spectral databases are available for fiber analysis and 

comparison? 

Commercial databases for FTIR – FBI Fiber library (Ver. 4.1.)

Georgia State Crime Lab Sample Library

HR Aldrich Dyes, Indicators, Nitro and Azo Compounds

HR Polymer Additives and Plasticizers

Hummel Polymer Sample Library 

Sprouse Fibers

Synthetic Fibers by Microscope

8. What published databases exist that describe frequency statistics on various 

characteristics of given fiber types? 

*It should be noted that the SWGMAT fiber subgroup does not feel the use of statistics in 

fiber analysis has been shown to be a reliable method of analysis based on the variation 

of fibers post-production and the lack of representative world production samples for 

comparison. (See SWGMAT guidelines). That being said, the following resources are 

available to aid in the determination of the significance of some fiber types:

-DMV databases of cars registered in an area (this can be used to determine a 

frequency statistic for automotive carpet fibers).

-Fiber Organon provides fiber production numbers and utilization rates– a 

publication of the Fiber Economics Bureau.

Frequency of Occurrence Data for Textile Fibers – Hal Deadman presentation at 

2004 AAFS – discussed variety of fibers found at GW Lisner auditorium from 

tapings collected from seats.
9. What references describe the quality review measures used in fiber analysis? 

-Accredited forensic laboratories should all possess their own internal guidelines for 

quality review measures in their laboratories.

-ASTM E1492 - 05 Standard Practice for Receiving, Documenting, Storing, and 

Retrieving Evidence in a Forensic Science Laboratory

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Quality Assurance Guidelines (January 1999 Revision) 

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Proficiency Testing Guidelines (July 2001)

-SWGMAT Expert Reporting Guidelines (January 2009)

Jones GR, President's Editorial -The Changing Practice of Forensic Science, Journal of 

Forensic Sciences, 47(3): 437-438 2002

The Manual of Best Practice for the Forensic Examination of Fibres, European Fibres 

Group, 2001. ENSFI

ISO17025

EFG QA group

ENSFI QCC (Quality and Competence Committee)

ANZFPAA-NIFS

SMANZFL

ANZFSS

10. What is the literature on the uncertainty or confidence of fiber analysis 

measurements? 

-SWGMAT Fiber Guidelines: The fiber examiner is still limited to stating that the 

questioned fibers are consistent with originating from the evidence garment, with the 

understanding that all other garments listed under Item 11 (subsection 5.4.1.11) may or 

may not be distinguishable from the evidence garment by fiber analysis alone. This 

argument in no way intimates a positive match to the evidence garment to the exclusion 

of all other garments. Production numbers for textiles may be available for use in 

interpreting the significance of evidence in a crime, but the examiner must be careful to 

be conservative in all estimates in order to avoid false inclusions (8). Calculating exact 

probability statistics for this type of evidence is problematic at best, and professional 

statisticians must be consulted before any calculations are reported or testified.

-Houck, M ―Statistics and the Tyranny of Numbers‖ Forensic Science Communications 

1999 Vol 1, No.3 The public perception of science allies it closely with mathematics, and 

the application of statistics to forensic DNA analysis has reinforced this perception. 
Numbers, however, are not required for the scientific process. All science, including 

forensic science, is a method of understanding the world around us, and quantitation is 

only one tool to assist that methodology. Yet, the public and the courts expect forensic 

scientists, including trace evidence examiners, to use mathematics and statistics regularly, 

based largely on the DNA model. Recent articles and court rulings have even suggested 

that without statistics, trace evidence may not be acceptably scientific.

This expectation is fraught with pitfalls that could adversely affect the accuracy of 

evidentiary reports presented in court. The foundational data upon which trace evidence 

statistics might be based differ radically from those used in DNA statistical calculations. 

If statistics are to be applied to trace evidence, they must be applied in a way appropriate 

to the discipline, unbiased in interpretation, and accessible to the trier of fact.

- Evett-I-W. The Theory of Interpreting Scientific Transfer Evidence (From 'Forensic 

Science Progress', Volume 4. Edited by A. Maehly and R.L. Williams, Published by 

Springer-Verlag) 1990; V4; P141-179

The history of forensic science has been characterised by dramatic advances in 

techniques which enable information to be gleaned from ever smaller quantities of 

material. Most of the literature is devoted to technical advances, with much less attention 

being paid to the procedures for interpreting the information objectively and efficiently. 

This is a review of the most important advances which have been made in the theory of 

interpreting scientific evidence in the context of the forensic transfer problem. 

Increasingly, the literature on interpretation employs what is known as Bayesian 

inference. The Bayesian approach to evaluating transfer evidence is explained and 

illustrates by simple examples. The problem of communicating a scientific assessment of 

evidence to a court is briefly discussed. Any attempts to move towards more objective 

methods demand background information in various forms and a number of attempts by 

forensic scientists to establish data collections and to study the nature of evidential 

transfer are reviewed. Interpretation is a difficult subject, which is the reason why 

progress has been slow, but this article attempts to explain some simple principles which 

should be helpful to any scientist in the field, whatever the discipline.

- Morgan-S-L; Hall-S-H; Hendrix-J-E; Bartick-E-G Pattern Recognition Methods for the 

Classification of Trace Evidence Textile Fibres from UV/Visible and Fluorescence 

Spectra PROCEEDINGS-TRACE-EVIDENCE-SYMPOSIUM,-CLEARWATERBEACH-FLORIDA; 2007; August; P1-10

Forensic chemists are often faced with having to identify patterns in analytical chemical 

data and interpreting observed differences. Likewise, a forensic fibre examiner might 

perform UV/visible microspectrophotometry on known and questioned fibres in order to 

evaluate possible associations between source and location. The use of multivariate 

statistics allows the confirmation of the statistical validity of discrimination between 

various polymer classes and dyed textile fibres, visualisation of significant differences 

between groups of spectra discrimination, and tracking of spectral changes with 

environmental changes. Fibres and associated spectra contained in the database, 
combined with validated software, are useful for fibre comparisons in casework and for 

quality control and the training of analysts. This paper describes the application of linear 

discriminant analysis to a database containing more than 5,000 UV/visible absorbance 

and fluorescence spectra.

- Wakefield-J-C; Skene-A-M; Smith-A-F-M; Evett-I-W. The Evaluation of Fibre 

Transfer Evidence in Forensic Science: A Case Study in Statistical Modelling

APPL-STAT; 1991; V40 (3); P461-476

Fibre evidence is often left at the scene of a crime. This paper considers the modelling 

aspects of assessing the evidential value of fibre evidence using Bayesian methodology. 

The likelihood ratio is used to draw inferences, derived from bivariate colour 

measurements. Details are also given of the modelling of the distribution of colour within

a particular item of clothing. The use of a large database allows the incorporation of an 

empirical prior distribution, using kernel density estimation. Casework examples are used 

to illustrate these points.

Other articles include:

Bresee RR (1987), Evaluation of Textile Fiber Evidence: A Review, Journal of Forensic 

Sciences, 32(2): 510-521

Evett IW, Jackson G, Lindley DV, Meuwly D (2006), Logical evaluation of evidence 

when a person is suspected of committing two separate offences, Science & Justice 2006: 

46; 25-31

Kokot S, Tuan NA, Rintoul L (1997) Discrimination of Reactive Dyes on Cotton Fabric 

by Raman Spectroscopy and Chemometrics, Applied Spectroscopy, 51(3): 387-395

Walsh KAJ, Buckleton JS, Triggs CM (1994), Assessing prior probabilities considering 

geography, Journal of the Forensic Science Society, 34(1): 47-51

Champod, C. and Taroni, F. Bayesian Framework for the Evaluation of Fiber Transfer 

Evidence. 1997. Science and Justice, 37, 75-83. 

Champod, C. and Taroni F. Interpretation of fibres evidence – The Bayesian approach. 

1999. In: Robertson, J. & Grieve M. (Eds.), Forensic examination of fibres. 2nd Edition. 

1999. Taylor & Francis, London & Philadelphia, 379-398.

Aitken C. and Taroni F. Fibres. In: Aitken C. and Taroni F. (Eds.), Statistics and 

evaluation of evidence for forensic scientists. 2nd Edition. 2004. John Wiley & Sons, 

Chichester, 381-398.

Causin, V., Schiavone, S., Marigo, A., Carresi, P. Bayesian framework for the evaluation 

of fiber evidence. 2004. Forensic Science International, 141, 159-170
11. What is the literature on the potential and actual cognitive bias in fiber 

examination? 

No known fiber specific studies on cognitive bias

-Bruce Budowle, Maureen C. Bottrell, Stephen G. Bunch, Robert Fram, Diana 

Harrison, Stephen Meagher, Cary T. Oien, Peter E. Peterson, Danielle P. Seiger, 

Michael B. Smith, Melissa A. Smrz, Greg L. Soltis, Robert B. Stacey. ―A 

Perspective on Errors, Bias, and Interpretation in the Forensic Sciences and 

Direction for Continuing Advancement” 

The forensic sciences are under review more so than ever before. Such review is 

necessary and healthy and should be a continuous process. It identifies areas for 

improvement in quality practices and services. The issues surrounding error, i.e., 

measurement error, human error, contextual bias, and confirmatory bias, and 

interpretation are discussed. Infrastructure is already in place to support reliability. 

However, more definition and clarity of terms and interpretation would facilitate 

communication and understanding. Material improvement across the disciplines should 

be sought through national programs in education and training, focused on science, the 

scientific method, statistics, and ethics. To provide direction for advancing the forensic 

sciences a list of recommendations ranging from further documentation to new research 

and validation to education and to accreditation is provided for consideration. The list is a 

starting point for discussion that could foster further thought and input in developing an 

overarching strategic plan for enhancing the forensic sciences.

-Dror, I.E., D Charlton, and A.E.Peron ―Contextual information renders experts 

vulnerable to making erroneous identificiations‖ Forensic Science International 156 

(2006) 74-78. The authors investigated whether experts can objectively focus on feature 

information in fingerprints without being misled by extraneous information, such as 

context. 

-M.J. Saks, D.M. Risinger, R. Rosenthal and W.C. Thompson ―Context effects in 

forensic science: A review and application of the science of science to crime laboratory 

practice in the United States‖ Science and Justice Vol 43, Issue 2 2003, p77-90.

Taroni, F., Aitken CGG., Garbolino P. (2001) De Finetti's subjectivism, the assessment 

of probabilities and the evaluation of evidence: a commentary for forensic scientists. 

Science & Justice; 41(3): 145-150.
12. What is the literature on contamination and control thereof in forensic fiber 

examinations? 

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Recovery Guidelines and SWGMAT Forensic Fiber 

Examination Guidelines 

- Individual laboratory evidence handling protocols

- Sano-T; Hrynchuk-R; Sandercock-M; Greenlay-W; Cassista-A. The Movement of 

Acrylic and Cotton Fibres Between Examination Benches Resulting From the Routine 

Examination of Garments (EFG 7th Meeting, Zurich, June)

PROC-EUROPEAN-FIBRES-GROUP; 1999; P65-75

A recent, Canadian government-appointed report cited incidents of contamination of 

exhibits in a forensic laboratory regarding fibres evidence that was being examined and 

compared. The report made specific recommendations concerning the prevention and 

documentation of possible contamination in fibre examinations, therefore a research 

project was carried out to respond, in part, to the recommendations by studying the 

movement, from bench to bench, of fibres shed from a garment under examination for 

trace evidence. The garments used in this case were composed of either acrylic or cotton. 

This study showed that there was no movement of these fibres between examination 

benches in different rooms when routine contamination prevention measures were 

implemented. However, significant numbers of fibres may accumulate on work surfaces 

if they are not regularly cleaned. Also, the opening and handling of a packaged garment 

may result in the transfer of fibres from that garment to the exterior of any other packages 

handled in the same room. The importance of routine contamination prevention measures 

is highlighted.

Roux C., Huttunen J., Rampling K., Robertson J., Factors Affecting the Potential for 

Fibre Contamination in Purpose Designed Forensic Search Rooms, Science and Justice, 

41(3), 2001, 135-144.

13. What references describe guidelines for reporting and interpretation of fiber related 

findings?

-SWGMAT reporting guidelines 

-SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examination Guidelines 

-SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Training document

- Grieve-M-C. A Survey on the Evidential Value of Fibres and the Interpretation of the 

Findings in Fibre Transfer Cases. Part 2 - Interpretation and Reporting

SCI-JUST; 2000; V40 (3); P201-209

As the first part of this series of papers considered the effect of fibre frequencies on 

evidential value, the second part considers the evaluation and reporting of fibre evidence. 
Responses to casework scenarios are studied, and the degree of variation in assessing the 

strength of the evidence in such cases are assessed using a verbal probability scale. 

Opinions were sought regarding the extent of the information which should be included 

in fibre casework reports. Bearing in mind the survey results, together with ideas 

advocating the use of a Bayesian approach to the evaluation of fibre evidence, proposals 

are put forward regarding improvements in the reporting of fibre evidence.

The Manual of Best Practice for the Forensic Examination of Fibres, European Fibres 

Group, 2001.

Forensic Fiber Examiner Training Program, Scientific Working Group for Materials 

Analysis (SWGMAT) Fiber Subgroup, 2005, Forensic Science Communications, 7(2)

Arnold J. (2004) The Bayesian Approach: Curse or Blessing in Evidence Evaluation. 

Proceeding of the Young Scientists Workshop (European Fibres Group), Prague, CZ. 

Bennett S, Roux CP, Robertson J. (2009) The significance of fibre transfer and 

persistence - a case study. Australian Journal of Forensic Science; 42(3): 221-228.

Bresee RR. (1987) Evaluation of Textile Fiber Evidence: A Review. Journal of Forensic 

Sciences; 32(2): 510-521.

Buckleton J, Evett IW. (1989) Aspects of the Bayesian Interpretation of Fibre Evidence. 

CRSE Report No. 684

Causin V, Schiavone S, Marigo A, Carresi P. (2004) Bayesian framework for the 

evaluation of fiber evidence in a double murder-a case report. Forensic Science 

International; 141(2-3): 159-170. 

Chabli S. (2001) Scene of Crime Evidence Fibres A Review: 1998 to 2001. 13th 

INTERPOL Forensic Science Symposium; D1- 107-119.

Champod C, Taroni F. (1997) Bayesian framework for the evaluation of fibre transfer 

evidence. Science & Justice; 37(2): 75-83.

Cwiklik C. (1999) An Evaluation of the Significance of Transfers of Debris: Criteria for 

Association and Exclusion. Journal of Forensic Sciences; 44(6): 1136-1150.

Cook R, Evett IW, Jackson G, Jones PJ, Lambert JA. (1998) A model for case assessment 

and interpretation. Science & Justice; 38(3): 151-156.

Cook R, Evett IW, Jackson G, Jones PJ, Lambert JA. (1999) Case pre-assessment and 

review in a two-way transfer case. Science & Justice; 39(2): 103-111.

Cook R, Evett IW, Jackson G, Jones PJ, Lambert JA. (1998) A hierarchy of propositions: 

deciding which level to address in casework. Science & Justice; 38(4): 231-239.
Cook R, Evett IW, Jackson G, Rogers M. (1993) A workshop approach to improving the 

understanding of the significance of fibres evidence. Journal of the Forensic Science 

Society; 33(3): 149-152.

Cook R, Evett IW, Jackson G, Rogers M. (1992) A Workshop Approach to Improving 

the Understanding of the Significance of Fibres Evidence. CRSE Report No. 745. 

Deadman HA. (1984) Fiber Evidence and the Wayne Williams Trial (Part I). FBI Law 

Enforcement Bulletin, March, 13-20.

Deadman HA. (1984) Fiber Evidence and the Wayne Williams Trial (Conclusion). FBI 

Law Enforcement Bulletin, March, 10-19.

Deedrick D. (1998) Searching For The Source - Car Carpet Fibres In The OJ Simpson 

Case. FSS: Contact, 26: 14-16. 

Dillinger S (2008) Investigation Approaches Based on Textile Labels. Global Forensic 

Science Today; January (4): 6-7

European Fibres Group, Proceeding of the 6th Meeting of the EFG, Dundee, Scotland, 

1998

European Fibres Group, Proceedings of the 4th EFG Meeting, London, England, 1996

European Fibres Group, Proceedings of the 11th EFG Meeting, Istanbul, 2003

Evett IW, Jackson G, Lambert JA. (2000) More on the hierarchy of propositions: 

exploring the distinction between explanations and propositions. Science & Justice; 

40(1): 3-10. 

Evett IW, Jackson G, Lindley DV, Meuwly D. (2006) Logical evaluation of evidence 

when a person is suspected of committing two separate offences. Science & Justice; 46: 

25-31. 

Fong W, Inami SH. (1986) Results of a Study to Determine the Probability of Chance 

Match Occurrences Between Fibers Known to be from Different Sources. Journal of 

Forensic Sciences; 31(1): 65-72.

Garbolino P, Franco T. (2002) Evaluation of scientific evidence using Bayesian 

networks. Forensic Science International; 125(2-3): 149-155.

Grieve MC. (2000) A survey on the evidential value of fibres and on the interpretation of 

the findings in fibre transfre cases. Part 1 - fibre frequencies. Science & Justice; 40(3): 

189-200.
Grieve MC. (2000) A survey on the evidential value of fibres and the interpretation of the 

findings in fibre transfer cases. Part 2 - interpretation and reporting. Science & Justice; 

40(3): 201-209.

Grieve MC. (1993) Fibers and Forensic Science - New Ideas, Developments, and 

Techniques. Forensic Science Review; 6(1): 59-79.

Grieve MC. (1983) The Role of Fibers in Forensic Science Examinations. Journal of 

Forensic Sciences; 28(4): 877-887.

Grieve MC, Dunlop J. (1992) A practical aspect of the Bayesian interpretation of fibre 

evidence. Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 32(2): 169-175.

Houck MM. (2003) Inter-comparison of unrelated fiber evidence. Forensic Science 

International; 135(2): 146-149.

Houck MM. (1999) Statistics and Trace Evidence: The Tyranny of Numbers. Forensic 

Science Communications; 1 (3).

Jones J, Coyle T. (2010) Automotive flock and its significance in forensic examinations. 

Science and Justice; 50: 77-85.

Kaufman F. (2005) Report of the Kaufman Commission on Proceedings Involving Guy 

Paul Morin. Commission Report.

Kokot S, Tuan NA, Rintoul L. (1997) Discrimination of Reactive Dyes On Cotton Fabric 

by Raman Spectroscopy and Chemometrics. Applied Spectroscopy; 51(3): 387-395.

Kubic TA, King JE, Kovar S. (1987) Microscopical Similarities and Differences in a 

"Random" Collection of Forty Red Textile Exhibits. Canadian Society of Forensic 

Science Journal; 20(3): 145.

Palmer R. (2000) Fibers: Identification and Comparison. Encyclopedia of Forensic 

Sciences; 815-823.

Palmer R. (2000) Fibers: Recovery. Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences; 823-829.

Palmer R. Examination of Fibres and Textiles. 16th International Forensic Science 

Symposium Interpol, Lyon, 5th-8th October 2010, Review Papers.

Patterson D. (1976) The Development of Colour Science. Rev. Prog. Colouration; 7: 46-

54.

Robertson J. (1987) Unique Evidence of Association Through Fibre Transfer? A Case 

History. Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal; 20(3): 139.
Robertson J, Grieve M. (eds.)  ̳Interpretation of Fibres Evidence‘ in Forensic 

Examination of Fibres 2nd Edition; Taylor & Francis; London; 1999.

Robertson J, Lloyd AK. (1984) Observations on Redistribution of Textile Fibres. Journal 

of the Forensic Science Society; 24: 3-7.

Robertson J, Roux C. (2000). Fibers: Transfer and Persistence. Encyclopedia of Forensic 

Sciences; 834-838.

Robertson J, Roux C. (2010) Trace evidence: Here today, gone tomorrow? Science and 

Justice; 50 (1): 18-22.

Rothe M. Examination of Foreign Fibre Populations. Proceedings of the 5th Meeting of 

the European Fibres Group, Berlin, Germany, 1997, p 119-120.

Roux C, Robertson J. (2000) Fibers: Significance. Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences; 

829-834.

Roux C, Robertson J. (2000) Fibres: Types. Encycolpedia of Forensic Sciences; 838-854.

Taroni F, Aitken CGG. (2000) Fibres evidence, probabilistic evaluation and collaborative 

test. Forensic Science International; 114(1): 45-47.

Taroni F, Aitken CGG. (1998) Probabilistic reasoning in the law. Part 2: assessment of 

probabilities and explanation of the value of trace evidence other than DNA. Science & 

Justice; 38(3): 179-188.

Taroni F, Aitken CGG, Garbolino P. (2001) De Finetti's subjectivism, the assessment of 

probabilities and the evaluation of evidence: a commentary for forensic scientists. 

Science & Justice; 41(3): 145-150.

Taroni F, Biedermann A, Garbolino P, Aitken CGG. (2001) A general approach to 

Bayesian networks for the interpretation of evidence. Forensic Science International; 

139(1): 5-16.

Walsh KAJ, Buckleton JS, Triggs CM. (1994) Assessing prior probabilities considering 

geography. Journal of the Forensic Science Society; 34(1): 47-51.

Wiggins KG. (2003) The European Fibres Group 1993-2002: "Understanding and 

improving the evidential value of fibres". Analytical & Bioanalytical Chemistry; 376: 

1172-1177.
While fiber examiners from the US generally do not advocate use of Bayesian statistics for 

determining evidential value the following studies are useful:

Target fiber studies

1940 Plaa Evaluation of Textile Fibers as Evidence, Jour of Criminal Law and 

Criminology, 1940, pp 382

1942 Burd/Kirk Clothing Fibers as Evidence, Jour of Criminal Law and Criminology, 

1942, pp 353

1986 Jackson The significance of fibres found on car seats. FSI, 32(1986) page 275

1986 Cook The significance of finding extraneous fibres in contact cases, FSI 

32(1986) page 267, see also Wilson 1987

1988 Grieve An Assessment of the Value of Blue, Red and Black Cotton Fibres as 

Target Fibers in Forensic Science Investigations, JFS, 1988, 1332-1244

1996 Palmer A Target Fiber Study Using Cinema and Car Seats as Recipient Items, 

JFS, 1996, 802

1996 Bruschweiler A study on the random distribution of a red acrylic target fibre, Sci and 

Justice, 32(2) 1997 page 85

1997 Cook Target fiber study head hair, FSI, 1997, pp. 155-160

1997 Siegel Review article summarized target fiber studies, Forensic Science Reviews 

December 1997

1998 Kelly Target fiber study public houses, Science and Justice (S&J) 1998, pp 39-44

2004 Wiggins A Study in Relation to the Random Distribution of Four Fiber Types on 

Clothing, S&J 44(3) page 141

2005 Grieve The Individuality of Fibers ... to Provide Forensic Evidence (actually a 

block of color study), S & J, 2007, pp 68-87

Population studies

1992 Grieve A practical aspect of the Bayesian interpretation of fibre evidence, JFSS, 

1992, 32(2) page 169, study of underwear

1995 Biermann Population study catalogs, FSI, 1996, pp 65-91 (parts 1 and 2)

1996 Roux The population of textile fibers on car seats, S&J 1997 37 page 25
1997 Roux An attempt to assess the relevance of textile fibers recovered from car 

seats, S&J 1997 37(4) page 225

1997 Grieve The Population of Coloured Textile Fibers on Outdoor Surfaces, S&J, 

1997, pp 231-239

2001 Cantrell A Textile Fiber Survey as an Aid to the Interpretation of Fibre Evidence in 

the Sydney Region, FSI, 2001, pp 48-53

2002 Akulova Outdoor surfaces, population study, S&J, 2002, pp.165-171

2003 Houck Inter-comparison of Unrelated Fiber Evidence (not really a population 

study FSI 2003 (135) page 146

2005 Palmer Population study human hair, S&J 2005 44(2) page 83

2005 Watt Population study washing machines, S&J 2005 45(1)

2006 Marnane A pilot study to determine the background population of foreign fibre 

groups on cotton/polyester T shirt, S&J, 2006 page 215

2009 Palmer The Population, Transfer, and Persistence of Fibers on the Skin of Living 

Subjects Science & Justice; 49(4) 259-264

Blocks of Color studies (these are also population studies looking at the variety within a 

particular color class combination)

1997 Cassista Survey of red, green and blue cotton fibres, J Can. Soc. For. Sci., 1997 

volume 30, (4) 

2001 Grieve The evidential value of black cotton fibres, S&J, 2001 41(4) page 245

2002 Parent Airport clothing fibers (also a population study) presented at the AAFS 

meeting in 2002

2003 Grieve Orange and green cotton fibers, S&J 2003 43 (1) page 5

2005 Grieve The individuality of fibres used to provide forensic evidence, not all blue 

polyesters are the same, S&J 2005 45(1) page 13

2007 Biermann Blocks of colour IV, the evidential value of blue & red cotton fibers, S&J, 

2007, pp. 68-87

2009 Palmer The discrimination of (non-denim) blue cotton, S&J, 2009, pp. 12-18
14. What literature describes empiric evaluations of error rates in fiber examination? 

SWGMAT does not believe that an actual error rate can be calculated for forensic fiber 

examinations – fiber examiners qualify their statements of association by stating in their 

report or testifying that a fiber can not be associated to a single item to the exclusion of 

all other textiles of similar type, color and manufacture. As textiles are mostly mass 

produced, there is an acceptance that coincidental associations are possible.

- Kevin Roberts, Matthew King, Edward G. Bartick, Stephen L. Morgan and John 

Goodpaster ―Evaluation of Statistical Measures for Fiber Comparisons: Interlaboratory 

Studies and Forensic Databases‖ (current NIJ grant)

15. What literature exists describing the instrumental analysis of fibers and the 

significance of the information obtained there from?

-SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examination Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examiner 

Training Guide

-- Tungol, Bartick, Montaser. Practical Guide to Infrared Microspectroscopy, Humecki 

ed. Ch. 7 – Forensic Examination of Synthetic Textile Fibers by Microscopic Infrared 

Spectrometery. New York: Marcel Dekker Inc. 1995.

Subsections on Experimental Considerations (including sample preparation), Infrared 

Spectral Databases, the Value of IR Analysis in Fiber Casework, Peak Area Ratio 

analysis of Acrylic Copolymer Fibers, Dichroism Studies of Single Fibers, and Future 

Directions.

- Ziba-Palus, J and J. Was-Gubala “An investigation into the use of micro-Raman spectroscopy for 

the analysis of car paints and single textile fibres” Journal of Molecular Structure, Vol 993, 

Issues 1-3, 2011, Pages 127-133

Micro-Raman spectroscopy was applied to identification and differentiation between 

criminalistic traces such as micropaint chips and single fibres. The aim was to determine 

the degree of discrimination between fibres coloured by defined chemical dye classes and 

to differentiate between paint samples on the basis of pigment/dye content. Samples of 

coloured cotton fibres and samples of green car paints were examined. It was found that

the majority of the obtained Raman spectra provided information about the main dyes 

present in the sample. However, in some cases fluorescence of the samples made dye 

identification impossible. Spectral libraries for examined paint samples and single fibres 

were created in order to facilitate quick recognition of similar forensic traces using this 

analytical method. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

- De Wael, K and T. Vanden Driessche ―Dichroism measurements in forensic fibre 

examination. Part 1 - Dyed polyester fibres. 2010 Forensic Science International
One hundred and twenty dyed polyester samples were examined with plane polarized 

light on their dichroic behaviour by optical light microscopy (OLM) and 

microspectrophotometry in the visible range (MSP Vis). It was found that most of these 

disperse dyed polyester fibres possess a strong dichroism, which fall into two broad 

categories. Either a decrease of intensity (hypochromic effect) or a change of hue 

(hypsochromic or bathochromic shift of absorption bands) is noted. These dichroic 

effects are related to the orientation of the dye structure with respect to the polymer 

chains. © 2010 Forensic Science Society.

Additional references:

Fong W. 1984. Fiber Evidence Laboratory Methods and Observations from Casework. 

Journal of Forensic Science. 29 (1):55-63.

Cellulose. 2003. Available at: www.fibersource.com

Grieve MC, Dunlop J, Haddock P. 1988. An Assessment of the value of Blue, Red, and 

Black cotton Fibers as Target Fibers in Forensic Science Investigations. Journal of 

Forensic Science. 33(6): 1332-1344.

Grieve MC, Dunlop J, Haddock P. 1990. An Investigation of Known Red, Blue, and 

Black Dyes Used in the Coloration of Cotton Fibers. Journal of Forensic Science. 

34(2):301-315.

Bresee RR. 1987. Evaluation of Textile Fiber Evidence: A Review. Journal of Forensic 

Science. 32(2): 510-521.

Cheng J. The Extraction and Classification of Dyes from Cotton Fibers Using Different 

Solvent Systems. JFSS 1991: 31 (1):31-40.

Grieve MC. 1983. The Role of Fibers in Forensic Science Examinations. Journal of 

Forensic Science. 28(4): 877-887.

White P. 1992. Chromatographic Analysis of fiber dyes, In: Ed. Robertson J, Horwood E. 

1992. Forensic Examination of Fibers. 143-179.

Hartshorne AW, Laing DK. 1988. Color Matching Within a Fiber Data Collection. 

Journal of Forensic Science. 33(6):1345-1354.

Fong W, Inami SH. 1986. Results of a Study to Determine the Probability of a Chance 

Match Occurrence between Fibers Known to be from Different Sources. Journal of 

Forensic Science. 31(1): 65-72.

Huang M, Yinon J, Sigman ME. 2004. Forensic Identification of Dyes Extracted From 

Textile Fibers by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry. Journal of Forensic 

Science. 49(2): 1-12.
Tuinman AA, Lewis LA, Lewis SA Sr. Trace-Fiber Color Discrimination by Electrospray 

Ionization Mass Spectrometry: A Tool for the Analysis of Dyes Extracted from 

Submillimeter Nylon Fibers. Anal Chem 2003 (75):2753-60.

Houck M. 1999. Forensic Fiber Examination Guidelines. Forensic Science 

Communications. 1(1)

Goynes W. (1998). Microscopic examination of native and modified cotton fibers. New 

Orleans: United States Department of Agriculture.

Grieve MC, & Wiggins K. G. 2001. Fibers under fire: Suggestions for improving their 

use to provide forensic evidence. Journal of Forensic Science, 46(4), 835-843. 

Grieve M; Biermann T.; Wiggins K.G Fibre comparison using microspectrophotometry 

[1], Science and Justice, Oct 27, 1999, 39/4 (273).

White P. (1992). Chromatographic analysis of fiber dyes. In J. Robertson & E. Horwood 

(Eds.), Forensic examination of fibers. 143-179

Wiggins K.G.; Holness J.-A; March B.M. // Wiggins K.G. The importance of thin layer 

chromatography and UV microspectrophotometry in the analysis of reactive dyes 

released from wool and cotton fibers, JFS, March 1, 2005, 50/2 (364-368).

16. What literature exists describing the various methods for the recognition, collection, 

and storage of fibers and how those processes affect the examination?

-SWGMAT Trace Evidence Recovery Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber 

Examination Guidelines, SWGMAT Forensic Fiber Examiner Training Guide

- Chewning-D-D; Deaver-K-L; Christensen-A-M. Persistence of Fibres on Ski Masks 

During Transit and Processing FORENSIC-SCI-COMMUN; 2008; V10 (3); July

A study was undertaken in order to examine the persistence of fibres on the interior and 

exterior surfaces of ski masks during transportation to the FBI Laboratory and during 

evidence processing in order to assess the case for separate examinations of the interior 

and exterior of a mask. To this end, ski masks (n = 20) were each seeded with 50 test 

fibres on either the interior or exterior only. The masks were subsequently packaged, 

shipped, and processed according to standard procedures before the final recovery 

locations of the fibres were documented. The results obtained suggested that 11 (55%) of 

the ski masks showed evidence of test-fibre transfer at some point during the study, 

although the number of fibres transferred only ranged from one to three. The probability 

that a fibre will be recovered from the same side on which it was deposited is higher than 

the probability that it will be recovered from the opposite side, but an examiner cannot 

conclude with certainty that fibres recovered in the laboratory from the interior or 

exterior of an item of evidence were originally deposited on that side. In many cases, 

processing of all the surfaces together may be acceptable.
-Pounds. The Recovery of Fibres from the Surface of Clothing for Forensic 

Examinations. JFSS 1975: 15, 127-132.

17. What databases are most needed in the field of fiber analysis? 

-An up to date, comprehensive automotive carpet fiber database would be very useful 

along the lines of PDQ – searchable for investigative leads.

-a fiber population database is NOT recommended for statistical use at this time due to 

the ever changing colors of fibers and textiles due to style and season as well as postmanufacture changes from exposure to sun, laundering, etc. The wide range of countries 

that manufacture fibers would also make it almost impossible to get a truly representative 

sample – it would not be advisable to reference a fiber found in a case against a database 

that may be limited by fiber manufacturer and that may not take into account the fact that 

fibers can change over time due to exposure to light, washing etc. 

18. What new technologies and areas of research should be pursued with regard to fiber 

examination and analysis? 

-Instrumental analysis of dyed single fibers (LC-MS, CE, etc.) following the generally 

accepted analytical scheme that utilizes stereomicroscopy and comparison microscopy to 

differentiate the majority of fibers prior to any instrumental analysis. This may include an 

assessment of each technique individually and then in comparison to one another.

-Analysis of finishing products and laundry products

-Elemental analysis of fibers and dyes

-Methods to distinguish individual automotive from interior carpet fibers

-A tape grid search instrument which can screen tape lifts with discrimination equal to or 

better than human stereo exams relating to color, cross-section, fiber type, diameter, etc.

-Analysis of surface contaminants on fiber surfaces for investigative and comparative 

purposes

-in situ/non-destructive dye analysis