A novel approach to condom lubricant analysis: In-situ analysis of swabs by FT-Raman Spectroscopy and its effects on DNA analysis

Current methods for the analysis of swabs for condom lubricants require a portion of the swab to be extracted. This requirement causes issues for those who require the swab for DNA extraction. A novel method is presented that facilitates analysis of the swab without the need for extraction. The method was shown to be equivalent to the traditional methods in terms of its sensitivity and discriminating power. The impact of the method on subsequent DNA extraction of swabs was assessed and no detrimental effects were observed. The method was used to conduct a survey of the current market for the supply of condoms in the UK. 90% of the UK condom market consists of condoms lubricated with PDMS. (C) 2008 Forensic Science Society. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.