ASTM E2937-18
Standard Guide for Using Infrared Spectroscopy in Forensic Paint Examinations

Standard No.

ASTM E2937-18

Release Date

2018

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Latest

ASTM E2937-18

Scope

1.1 This guide applies to the forensic IR analysis of paints and coatings and is intended to supplement information presented in the Forensic Paint Analysis and Comparison Guidelines (1)2 written by Scientific Working Group on Materials Analysis (SWGMAT). This guideline is limited to the discussion of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) instruments and provides information on FTIR instrument setup, performance assessment, sample preparation, analysis and data interpretation. It is intended to provide an understanding of the requirements, benefits, limitations and proper use of IR accessories and sampling methods available for use by forensic paint examiners. The following accessory techniques will be discussed: FTIR microspectroscopy (transmission and reflectance), diamond cell and attenuated total reflectance. The particular methods employed by each examiner or laboratory, or both, are dependent upon available equipment, examiner training, specimen size or suitability, and purpose of examination. This guideline does not cover the theoretical aspects of many of the topics presented. These can be found in texts such as An Infrared Spectroscopy Atlas for the Coatings Industry (Federation of Societies for Coatings, 1991) (2) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (Griffiths and de Haseth, 1986) (3). 1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.3 This 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. 1.4 This 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.

ASTM E2937-18 Referenced Document

• ASTM D16 Standard Terminology for Paint, Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications
• ASTM E131 Standard Definitions of Terms and Symbols Relating to Molecular Spectroscopy
• ASTM E1421 Standard Practice for Describing and Measuring Performance of Fourier Transform Mid-Infrared (FT-MIR) Spectrometers: Level Zero and Level One Tests*， 2021-09-01 Update
• ASTM E1492 Standard Practice for Receiving, Documenting, Storing, and Retrieving Evidence in a Forensic Science Laboratory
• ASTM E1610 Standard Guide for Forensic Paint Analysis and Comparison

ASTM E2937-18 history

• 2018 ASTM E2937-18 Standard Guide for Using Infrared Spectroscopy in Forensic Paint Examinations
• 2013 ASTM E2937-13 Standard Guide for Using Infrared Spectroscopy in Forensic Paint Examinations