1.1This test method covers a procedure for the quantitative elemental analysis of the following seventeen elements: lithium (Li), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), manganese (Mn), rubidium (Rb), strontium (Sr), zirconium (Zr), barium (Ba), lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), neodymium (Nd), hafnium (Hf) and lead (Pb) through the use of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for the forensic comparison of glass fragments. The potential of these elements to provide the best discrimination among different sources of soda-lime glasses has been published elsewhere (1-5).² Silicon (Si) is also monitored for use as an internal standard. Additional elements can be added as needed, for example, tin (Sn) can be used to monitor the orientation of float glass fragments.

1.2The method only consumes approximately 0.4 to 2 g of glass per replicate and is suitable for the analysis of full thickness samples as well as irregularly shaped fragments as small as 0.1 mm by 0.4 mm in dimension. The concentrations of the elements listed above range from the low parts per million (µgg^-1) to percent (%) levels in soda-lime-silicate glass, the most common type encountered in forensic cases. This standard method may be applied for the quantitative analysis of other glass types; however, some modifications in the reference standard glasses and the element menu may be required.

1.3This standard does not replace knowledge, skill, ability, experience, education or training and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment.

1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5This 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.