Portable analytical platforms for forensic chemistry: A review

Author(s)

de Araujo, William R. ^[1] ; Cardoso, Thiago M. G. ^[2] ; da Rocha, Raquel G. ^[3] ; Santana, Mario H. P. ^[4] ; Munoz, Rodrigo A. A. ^[3] ; Richter, Eduardo M. ^[3] ; Paixao, Thiago R. L. C. ^[1] ; Coltro, Wendell K. T. ^[2]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Quim, BR-05508000 Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Fed Goias, Inst Quim, Campus Samambaia, BR-74690900 Goiania, Go - Brazil

^[3] Univ Fed Uberlandia, Inst Quim, BR-38400902 Uberlandia, MG - Brazil

^[4] Superintendencia Reg Dept Policia Fed MG, Unidade Tecn Cient, BR-38408680 Uberlandia, MG - Brazil

• Document type: Review article
• Source: Analytica Chimica Acta; v. 1034, p. 1-21, NOV 30 2018.
• Web of Science Citations: 31

Abstract

This current review article focuses on recent contributions to on-site forensic investigations. Portable and potentially portable methods are presented and critically discussed about (bio)chemical trace analysis and studies performed outside the controlled laboratory environment to rapidly help in crime scene inquiries or forensic intelligence purposes. A wide range of approaches including electrochemical sensors, microchip electrophoresis, ambient ionization on portable mass spectrometers, handheld Raman and NIR instruments as well as and point-of-need devices, like paper-based platforms, for in-field analysis of latent evidences, controlled substances, drug screening, hazards, and others to assist in law enforcements and solving crime more efficiently are highlighted. The covered examples have successfully demonstrated the huge potential of portable devices for on-site applications. Future investigations should consider analytical validation to compete equality and even replace current gold standard methods. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/10522-5 - Development of alternative methods for fabrication of electrochemical paper-based sensors
• Grantee: Thiago Regis Longo Cesar da Paixão
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 16/16477-9 - Fabrication of portable paper-based analytical devices with electrochemical and colorimetric detection system aiming at forensic, clinical, and environmental applications
• Grantee: William Reis de Araujo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral