Estimation of postmortem interval by quantification of chemical elements deposited on human teeth enamel submersed in seawater

Abstract Background Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) in drowning cases is an indispensable yet challenging task in forensic examinations. Traditional soft tissue markers often decompose rapidly in aquatic environments, making accurate PMI estimation difficult. However, teeth offer a unique advantage which is exceptional resistance to environmental degradation, microbial invasion, and physical damage. Being enclosed within hard enamel, protected dental pulp remains, allowing forensic experts to analyse biochemical, histological, and molecular changes over time. Thus, teeth provide valuable biological evidence under these conditions This study sought to estimate the post-mortem interval by measuring and correlating seawater elements (Na, Ca, Cl, etc.) deposited on human enamel over a three-month submersion period. The teeth samples were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with Energy Dispersive X‑ray Spectroscopy (EDX) to assess elemental changes after three months of seawater submersion. Results The findings represent preliminary experimental evidence. Elemental deposition demonstrates an association with submersion time under controlled conditions. Conclusion Additional research is required to assess how aquatic variables such as temperature, salinity, and microbial activity influence PMI estimation from submerged dental enamel.