Ethan Groves Leads Raman Spectroscopy Workshop at MAFS Fall Meeting
Ethan Groves, Senior Research Microscopist with Microtrace, presented a half-day workshop,“Raman Spectroscopy in a Trace Evidence Laboratory,” on August 26th as part of the MAFS (Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists) 2026 Fall Meeting. The conference was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota from August 23rd to 28th, 2026. The workshop introduced attendees to the principles of Raman spectroscopy and demonstrated how this powerful analytical technique is applied to forensic trace evidence investigations.
The presentation highlighted the use of Raman microspectroscopy for the identification and characterization of a wide range of forensic materials, including paint, textile fibers, minerals, drugs, explosives, and other chemical unknowns. Participants gained insight into spectral interpretation strategies, advanced applications, and real-world case examples illustrating how Raman spectroscopy can provide valuable forensic associations and discriminating power in trace evidence examinations. Additional information about the meeting is available on the MAFS Fall Meeting website.
Abstract
Raman Spectroscopy in a Trace Evidence Laboratory
Raman spectroscopy represents a relatively new avenue analysis for forensic investigations. Often described as a complementary technique to infrared spectroscopy, Raman finds use in the identification, characterization, and comparison of a wide range of materials of forensic interest. When coupled to a microscope, Raman microspectroscopy can be used to analyze minute amounts of material, with a spatial resolution on the order of micrometers, and is therefore well-suited for trace evidence applications. A prime example is the analysis of colorants within paint and textile fibers, two common types of trace evidence. Raman spectroscopy can be used to distinguish polymorphic crystal phases (i.e., anatase and rutile, the two commonly encountered forms of titanium dioxide) as well as identify the pigments and dyes used in textiles and printing inks to provide increased association or discriminating power. Raman spectroscopy can be used to identify the phase of a mineral from sand samples, supplementing microscopical examinations or elemental analyses in these types of investigations. Further, Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for the analysis of chemical unknowns, ranging from a simple identification of white powders, drugs, explosives, to more complex characterization of API distributions or complex corrosion products. Attendees of this half-day workshop will receive an overview of the theory and use of Raman spectroscopy with an emphasis on forensic trace evidence applications. Spectral interpretation strategies as well as some advanced applications of Raman spectroscopy will be discussed. Finally, case examples which illustrate the strengths of Raman spectroscopy will be presented.
Presenter: Ethan Groves, Senior Research Microscopist, Microtrace LLC.
MAFS
The Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists (MAFS) was founded in 1971 as a non-profit organization where scientists from the Midwest could gather and discuss unique cases or research to help further the field and solve problems within the disciplines. Over the years, MAFS has grown to include participants from all over the U.S. and even some from outside the U.S.; however, the original goal of the organization has not changed. Annual fall meetings and spring workshops are held to provide opportunities for scientists to advance their expertise and share their knowledge with others. A visiting scientist program is available to aid laboratories with specific training needs. University students are encouraged to join the organization and present relevant research that may impact the field. MAFS purpose is to encourage the exchange of ideas and information within forensic science as is exemplified through the mission statement “To further the field of forensic science by leading to inspire and inspiring to learn.”
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