Standard Guide for Gunshot Residue Analysis by Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry

1.1 This guide covers the analysis of gunshot residue (GSR) by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS) by manual and automated methods. The analysis may be performed manually, with the operator manipulating the microscope controls and the EDS system software, or in an automated fashion, where some amount of the analysis is controlled by pre-set software functions.

1.2 Since software and hardware formats vary among commercial systems, guidelines will be offered in the most general terms possible. The software manual for each system should be consulted for proper terminology and operation.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.