Determining the sequence of intersecting gel pen and laser printed strokes - A comparative study

The relative chronological sequence of intersecting gel pen ink lines and laser printed marks has been determined using optical methods. The results were obtained by observing spectral reflection, relative sheen, skipping and gaps of gel pen ink strokes at the point of intersection. The intersections are observed under stereo microscope and digital microscope. The effectiveness of both the optical instruments for sequence of the strokes has been compared. The sequence of intersecting lines (of same colour, different colours; and where one of the strokes is darker) has been established. (C) 2009 Forensic Science Society. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.