1.1This guide is intended to assist forensic analysts who conduct UV, visible, NIR, or fluorescence emission spectral analyses on small fragments of paint or use Guide E1610, as this guide is to be used in conjunction with a broader analytical scheme.

1.2This guide deals primarily with color measurements within the visible spectral range but will also include some details concerning measurements in the UV and NIR spectral ranges. The particular method(s) employed by each analyst depends upon available equipment, examiner training (Practices E2917, E3234), sample suitability, and sample size.

1.3This guide provides basic recommendations and information about microspectrophotometers.

1.4This guide does not address other areas of color evaluation such as colorimetric values, paint surface texture or pigment particle size, shape, or dispersion within a paint film that are evaluated by other forms of microscopy.

1.5This guide is directed at the color analysis of commercially prepared paints and coatings. It does not address the analysis or determination of provenance of artistic, historical, or restorative paints, but it could be useful in those fields.

1.6The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (see Practices E2917, E3234), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.

1.8This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.