Laboratory instrumentation

The department's laboratories use advanced forensic and analytical equipment. In plain terms:

• DNA analysers produce DNA profiles from biological material, so samples can be compared with reference samples.
• Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) separates a mixture into its components and identifies each by its mass spectrum. It is widely used for drugs, poisons and fire accelerants.
• Inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) measures metals and other elements at very low concentrations, for example in water and food.
• Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) separates compounds that are not suited to gas chromatography, such as many pharmaceuticals and toxins.
• Rapid CBRN detection systems support the quick identification of chemical threats.