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Validation Study for Vinyl Electrical Tape End Matches

NCJ Number
234639
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 56 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2011 Pages: 606-611
Author(s)
Maureen J. Bradley, Ph.D.; Jennifer M. Gauntt, M.D.; Andria H. Mehltretter, M.S.; Preston C. Lowe, M.S.; Diana M. Wright, Ph.D.
Date Published
May 2011
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study was designed to determine the validity and error rate associated with conducting end-match (fracture match) examinations on vinyl electrical tape.
Abstract
Fracture matches are considered the strongest conclusion in the forensic examination of rigid materials, such as glass, metal, and paint. However, publications that support the fracture matching of polymeric films, such as tape backings, are limited. In the current study, test designs varied the source roll of tape, test preparer, or mode of separation from the roll. Results indicated that each affected the resulting severed tape ends. The analysts examining the end matches also had an effect on the results. Eight end matches in the study were not identified by the initial analysts and were considered inconclusive. One end match was misidentified, resulting in one false positive and an error rate of 0.049 percent. These results support a comprehensive physical and chemical tape comparison regardless of indications of an end match. (Published Abstract)