Microscopy of Explosives (1722), September 30–October 4, 2024 In-Person
COURSE OUTLINE & SYLLABUS
Course schedule: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Friday.
This advanced course in the microscopy of bulk explosives, pyrotechnics, and explosive residues will cover organic, inorganic, military, commercial, and improvised explosives. The identification techniques are based on morphology, optical crystallography, microchemical tests, and visual thermal methods. Proficiency in polarized light microscopy is assumed and necessary.
Prerequisite: Applied Polarized Light Microscopy (1201)/Forensic Microscopy (1204) or equivalent.
This advanced course in the microscopy of bulk explosives, pyrotechnics, and explosive residues will cover organic, inorganic, military, commercial, and improvised explosives. The identification techniques are based on morphology, optical crystallography, microchemical tests, and visual thermal methods. Proficiency in polarized light microscopy is assumed and necessary.
Prerequisite: Applied Polarized Light Microscopy (1201)/Forensic Microscopy (1204) or equivalent.
Day 1
Köhler illumination; Crystal morphology: crystal systems, symmetry elements, axes, forms, interfacial angles, and axial ratios
Day 2
- Crystal Optics I: refractive index determinations and indices of crystals in each crystal system
- Crystal Optics II: Birefringence, retardation, Michel Levy chart, extinction, anomalous optical properties, and interference figures
Day 3
- Microchemical tests: inorganic ions and organic compounds
- Fusion methods: melting points, identity test, form of crystal-front, and optical properties of fusion preparations
Day 4
- Identification schemes for organic and inorganic high explosives
- Isolation and identification of explosive residues
Day 5
Identification of unknowns