Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences |
Subtitle of host publication | Second Edition |
Publisher | Elsevier Inc. |
Pages | 155-160 |
Number of pages | 6 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780123821652 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780123821669 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2013 |
Abstract
Because of their size and their particular nature, fibers probably constitute the ultimate example of trace evidence. Although fibers are easily transferred during a criminal event and a large pool of techniques can be applied for their characterization, the interpretation of an apparent 'fiber match' remains one of the most difficult challenges in the forensic examination of trace evidence. However, knowledge in this area has significantly improved over the past 25 years. Nowadays, a wealth of empirical data can be used by forensic scientists to determine the value of fiber evidence in the context of a case. In addition, logical and statistical frameworks can also assist them in this endeavor. This article reviews the state of the art in this topic.