Strontium isotopic analysis as an experimental auxiliary technique in forensic identification of human remains

Strontium isotopic analysis has been used in the last three decades to trace the (geological) source of both archaeological and modern organic and inorganic materials. This paper reports on the application of Sr isotopic analysis via multi-collector ICP-mass spectrometry to present-day forensic investigations. By determining the Sr-87/Sr-86 ratio, the geological origin of Sr in human remains such as bone and tooth enamel can be revealed. In this way, an attempt at unravelling the geographical-geological area of residence of the person in question is made, from birth until the last years of his/her life. Although the technique is neither detailed nor exclusive in determining the residence of a person during life, it can provide essential clues in reconstructing the origin or provenance of human remains and in this way, help in the identification of unidentified individuals in a forensic context

Effects of hydrated lime and quicklime on the decay of buried human remains using pig cadavers as human body analogues

Recent casework in Belgium involving the search for human remains buried with lime, demonstrated the need for more detailed understanding of the effect of different types of lime on cadaver decomposition and its micro-environment. Six pigs (Sus scrofa) were used as body analogues in field experiments. They were buried without lime, with hydrated lime (Ca(OH)(2)) and with quicklime (CaO) in shallow graves in sandy loam soil in Belgium and recovered after 6 months of burial. Observations from these field recoveries informed additional laboratory experiments that were undertaken at the University of Bradford, UK. The combined results of these studies demonstrate that despite conflicting evidence in the literature, hydrated lime and quicklime both delay the decay of the carcass during the first 6 months. This study has implications for the investigation of clandestine burials and for a better understanding of archaeological plaster burials. Knowledge of the effects of lime on decomposition processes also has bearing on practices involving burial of animal carcasses and potentially the management of mass graves and mass disasters by humanitarian organisations and DVI teams.N