Measurement of gunshot residues with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry from a 9 mm × 25 mm police revolver and 7.62 mm × 25 mm type 64 pistol

Criminals have access to more firearm sources, which has led to an increase in shooting cases. Identification of gunshot residues (GSR) is a necessary procedure for gathering evidence in forensic investigations. A new analytical method is proposed for quantification of GSR using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The concentration of Pb, Ba, Sb, and Sn in GSR were measured with ICP-MS. Different collection areas on hands and firearms were studied to select the best area for extracting GSR. The GSR concentration with bloodstains on the incident bullet hole at the firing distance of 5 cm and 100 cm was investigated. The results show that ICP-MS is a powerful tool for identifying GSR, and providing a reliable inspection method.