In document analysis, ink identification is an important part of identifying the possible tool and then eventually identifying the writer of the document. This same process can be used to prove the validity or fraudulent nature of a document. A common type of ink used by everyone sometime in their life is that of a ballpoint pen. By using the methods of thin-layer chromatography and high-pressure liquid chromatography, the purpose of this experiment was to identify chemical properties of the inks of popular brands of ballpoint pens. This work was then developed into a laboratory exercise for students in a capstone course in and undergraduate forensic science program.

Identification of inks by thin-layer chromatography and high-pressure liquid chromatography

245th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.