Forensic characterization and comparison of different nail polishes using attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)

Nail polishes are cosmetics that may act as crucial and potential trace evidence in forensic analysis. Nail paint examination may help in order to link suspect or victim in criminal investigation. This examination can be used in case of homicide, sexual assault, physical assaults etc.

The present research study focused on physical examination of nail paints such as color and texture using microscopy as well as with instrumentation technique ATR-FTIR (Attenuated total reflectance infrared spectroscopy) for characterization. The study was also conducted on the aspect that nail paint wearer undergo various daily chores such as washing hands with soaps, using sanitizers, sunlightetc and will it be feasible to correlate the standard nail paint obtained from the nail clipping that are exposed to same conditions.

Therefore, a comparative study of standard nail paint with nail paints subjected to different conditions were made and change in composition or any other feature has been studied using ATR-FTIR.

This study will help the investigating officers to correlate the standard nail paint in possession with the nail or the nail paint obtained from the crime scene.