Analysis of Polymers and Organic GSR from 3D Printed Firearm using Direct Analysis in Real-time Mass Spectrometry (DART-MS)

Several methods were developed in lab work, including forensic analysis of polymers & organic GSR from 3D printed firearms using Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry (DART-MS) for a wide variety of applications. Since its introduction, DART-MS has been studied for forensic use in areas including drug detection, gunshot residue, printer inks, and even insect identification. We used DART-MS to characterize the polymer evidence left behind by a 3D-printed firearm on cartridge cases, bullets, and the receiving surface. According to James Cizdziel, “There is concern with these 3D printed guns because they have no serial numbers. The fire gun barrels made with Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polylactic Acid, PETG, Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) & Nylon were examined by DART-MS. The resulting cartridge cases, bullets & GSR are examined by Direct Analysis of Real Time-Mass Spectrometry”. It successfully detects and identifies the traces of polymer and organic GSR compounds on the bullets, cartridge cases, and in GSR collected from clothing. While detecting polymer in the trace evidence was challenging, DART-MS obtained clear spectra that matched the plastic from the gun from clothing used as a backdrop for test fire. According to the study, DART-MS readily detected three chemicals commonly found in firearm propellants (ethyl centralite, methyl centralite, and diphenylamine) on the bullet and cartridge case, as well as in the solvent wash of the GSR stub. The resulting cartridge cases, bullets, and gunshot residue (GSR) were examined by direct analysis in real time – mass spectrometry (DART-MS). High-resolution mass spectra detected polymer from the gun barrel on bullets and cartridge casings for a 0.38 special Caliber gun and, to a lesser extent, for a 0.22 Caliber 3D-printed gun. This study states that analysis of firearm trace evidence using DART-MS needs more attention & that the technique may be particularly useful for investigating crimes involving 3D-printed guns. I'm writing my review paper on this topic because it's important for addressing challenges related to 3D-printed firearms. These weapons often don't have traditional serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. However, by analyzing polymer residues left on bullets, cartridge cases, or nearby surfaces, investigators can potentially identify the firearm used. The unique chemical makeup of polymers used in 3D printing can help ink the residue back to a specific gun or even a particular 3D printer model. This study states that analysis of firearm trace evidence using DART-MS needs more attention & that the technique may be particularly useful for investigating crimes involving 3D-printed guns.