Example forensic science dissertation topic 1:

An analysis of and other common factors such as chemical composition in cling film used in the packaging of illicit drugs.

Cling film is frequently used to package small amounts of illicit drugs among low-level dealers. Increasing forensic interest has focussed upon the chemical composition of cling film to determine relationships between specific samples of cling film. This dissertation considers whether changes in chemical composition can be found in the striae of cling film and whether they are of significant forensic value. Using methods such as visual observation, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, birefringence and shadowgraphy, the research will seek to find means of linking packaging similarities in order to differentiate between those claiming to be users and those who are dealing.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• Holman, S.W., Emmett, T.F. and Cole, M.D. (2012). ‘A quantitative assessment of the chemical variation in food grade polyethylene cling film, a common wrapping material for illicit drugs, using attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy’. Analytical Methods, vol. 4(6), pp. 1667-1673.
• Lo, L.S.S. (2012). The examination of transparent plastic bags for forensic casework. Master’s thesis, University of Auckland.
• Siegel, J.A. and Siegel, J. (2011). Forensic science at work. New York: Rosen Classroom.