Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS) for the forensic examination of paints and coatings

Paints and coatings have been recognised as an important type of forensic evidence for several decades. During this time, the materials themselves, the analytical methods used to examine them and the legal environment surrounding the use of scientific evidence in courts have changed. This chapter provides an overview of scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS) and its current application to the forensic examination of paints and coatings.