A critical priority for forensic analysis of fraudulent documents is determination of the ink source. With high resolution and low cost, inkjet printers have become an easy platform to create such fraudulent documents. In this study, micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) with ultraviolet-visible photodiode array detection was applied to the characterization of commercial inkjet printer inks. Although a destructive technique, MEKC with its high resolution, low sample volume requirements, and ease of sample preparation allowed for minimal damage to the analyzed document. Photodiode array detection permitted inks to be characterized not only by their electrophoretic mobility, but also ultraviolet-visible spectrum. A searchable database was created of color and black inkjet printer inks for a broad range of commercial inkjet printers.

Forensic analysis of commercial color and black inkjet printer inks by micellar electrokinetic chromatography

249th National Meeting (2015)

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