Modern Approaches for the Examination of Toolmarks and Other Surface Marks.

Abstract

Numerous techniques have been developed over the years in the examination of toolmarks and footwear impression. Recent development in the following aspects are described: shoemark enhancement techniques, new casting materials, comparison scanning electron microscopy, computerized identification of striations, and recovery of erased numbers in new metallic and polymeric materials. Furthermore, quality assurances and the duties of toolmark examiners are examine.