Hairs and Fibers Examinations

 

Hair examinations can determine whether hairs are animal or human. Race, body area, method of removal, damage, and alteration (that is, bleaching or dyeing) can be determined from human hair analysis. Examinations can associate a hair to a person on the basis of microscopic characteristics in the hair but cannot provide absolute personal identification. The animal species and family can be determined from hair analysis.

Hairs indicating forced (left) and natural (right) removal.

Microscopic images of wool fibers.

Fiber examinations can identify the type of fiber such as animal (wool), vegetable (cotton), mineral (glass), and synthetic (manufactured). Questioned fibers can be compared to fibers from victim(s)' and suspect(s)' clothing, carpeting, and other textiles. A questioned piece of fabric can be physically matched to known fabric. Fabric composition, construction, and color can be compared, and impressions on fabric and from fabric can be examined. Clothing manufacturers' information can be determined by label searches.

Submitting Hairs and Fibres Evidence

Questions concerning hairs and fibres evidence should be directed to 03-9702366. Follow the Evidence Submission directions including Requesting Evidence Examinations and Packaging and Shipping Evidence.

 

Collect at least 25 known hairs from different parts of the head and/or pubic region. Comb and pull out the hairs. Submit hairs in clean paper or an envelope with sealed corners. When possible, submit the entire garment or textile. Submit fibers in clean paper or an envelope with sealed corners.

Polarizing microscope image of a nylon fiber.