Sample Types & Submission

Almost any material can be used to provide forensic palynological and some mineralogical evidence.

  • mud, dust, soil, dirt, grit, sand
  • hair, feathers, skin
  • clothing, footwear, ropes, bags, carpets
  • packing materials
  • drugs
  • stomach, intestines, colon, faeces
  • food stuffs - honey, coffee, sugar, tea, bread, food supplements
  • fruit, vegetables, plants
  • bee pollen
  • antique furniture, paintings
  • enamel painted planks of wood
  • coins and paper money
  • cars, especially air filters, wheels, wheel arches and mud flaps
  • aeroplanes
  • safes (spaces are sometimes filled with diatomaceous earth which spreads rapidly when the safe is blown)

Sample Collection:

Collection and packaging of forensic palynology samples is critical. We prefer to collect our own forensic samples if possible. Please contact us for advice on protocols, how and what to collect, and how samples should be packaged.

 

Sample Submission:

Destructive techniques are often used to extract spores, pollen, and minerals. So if the samples are also likely to provide other lines of evidence, for example, DNA, hairs or gun powder, then these tests should be done first. This means that in New Zealand many evidential samples should first be submitted and examined by forensic scientists from the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Research (ESR) before being passed on to GNS Science. However, samples can be sent directly to us if no other lines of inquiry are needed. Please contact us for details on how to submit samples.