Detection of dry bloodstains on different fabrics after washing with commercially available detergents

Abstract

Blood is significant evidence that can help an investigator solve a crime. It can link a suspect to a crime and also help in reconstructing the crime scene. Criminals often attempt to eliminate bloodstained evidence at a scene by washing it. These attempts can result in alteration, or partial or complete removal of stained areas. Many presumptive tests are used to detect the bloodstains on clothes. In this study, bloodstained fabrics were washed with commercially available and frequently used detergents. Kastle-Meyer (KM), Leucomalachite green (LMG), Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and Hemastix tests were used to detect the presence of blood on these washed fabrics. The Hemastix test was found to be the most sensitive to detecting the washed stains on all cloths. The Leucomalachite green test was found to be the least sensitive. The ability of a fabric to retain blood after washing depends not only upon the chemistry and manufacturing of the fabric but also on the type of detergent. The time of immersion of the fabric with detergent also affects the removal of stains from fabrics. Ariel showed the best results in removing bloodstains from all fabrics. Cotton polyester and khaddar showed the maximum retention of blood after washing with either of the detergents, whereas silk polyester had the minimum ability to hold bloodstains.

Keywords:

• presumptive tests
• Kastle-Meyer
• Leucomalachite green
• Tetramethylbenzidine
• Hemastix
• detergents
• bloodstains

Acknowledgments

Thanks to the administration of Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), Lahore, Pakistan for providing the facility to conduct this research work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.