Typical scenario

Paint on a tool and door: what does matching colour mean?

Suppose paint particles on a tool resemble the coating of a damaged door in colour. Contact between those particular items is suggested immediately, without examining repair history or other possible sources.

What needs to be clarified

The task is to compare particles and coating samples, assessing material features separately from an explanation of the particular event.

Materials to prepare

  • The tool and particles, retained packaging and discovery information.
  • Door reference samples identifying sampling locations and circumstances.
  • Damage photographs and records of painting, repair and storage.

What to compare

  • Check each sample’s link to its particular surface and location.
  • Compare accessible composition, structure and layer-sequence features.
  • Distinguish material similarity from support for a contact explanation.

Possible outcome of the analysis

A possible result is a reasoned comparison listing supported similarities, differences and remaining limitations.

Limits of the conclusions

Matching colour proves neither a unique source nor the timing of particle transfer or mechanism of door damage.

Forensic examination of materials, substances and products
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