New Gelatin Trick Helps Detect Explosives Better

Forensic investigators face a daunting task: finding minuscule remnants of explosives after a blast. This crucial evidence helps determine what happened and who was responsible. However, traditional collection methods—such as cotton swabs or specialized liquids—often fall short, missing critical evidence, particularly on rough or contaminated surfaces.

A Sweet Solution: Gelatin-Based Gel

Scientists have developed an innovative gel made from gelatin, the same substance used in desserts. This gel adheres to various surfaces, effectively capturing more explosive residues than conventional methods. Tests were conducted on ten different materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.

• Smooth Surfaces: The gel performed exceptionally well, recovering 80-95% of explosive residues.
• Rough Surfaces: Even on textured surfaces, the gel achieved a 60-70% recovery rate.

Precision and Cost-Effectiveness

Using a specialized machine, researchers confirmed that the gel could detect even trace amounts of explosives. Additionally, the gel is remarkably affordable, costing only $0.50 per sample, compared to the $2 per swab typically used in forensic investigations.

Potential Applications and Future Testing

This groundbreaking gel could revolutionize forensic science, crime scene analysis, environmental monitoring, and security measures. However, further real-world testing is necessary to validate its effectiveness in practical scenarios. If successful, this gel could become an indispensable tool for investigators worldwide.