Differentiation of Different Blue Inks in Manipulated Documents using VSC®-8000/HS: a Comprehensive Non-Destructive Technique

Abstract

In present scenario, ink analysis has become extremely challenging. It is crucial for a forensic document examiner to select the best non-destructive technique for analysis. Video Spectral comparators have always been used for examination of documents under question. The current advanced variant of Video spectral comparator i.e. VSC®- 8000/HS is loaded with a wide spectrum of features including database of passports and currencies, multi-spectral analysis, micro-spectrometer etc. The present study demonstrates the effectiveness and potential of multi-spectral illumination and micro-spectrometer for analysis and differentiation of blue ball point and gel inks in handwritten documents. VSC®-8000/HShaveproved to be highly effective, robust and a comprehensive non-destructive technique for visual as well as spectral analysis of handwritten documents which have been altered (additions, obliterations and overwriting) with two or more blue inks. It can efficaciously complement with the present workflow of questioned document examination to provide qualitative as well as quantitative data for the expert’s opinion.