CFI Accelerant Detection & Fire Debris Analysis

Question 1

Which analytical method is considered the gold standard for identifying ignitable liquid residues in fire debris laboratory samples?

Accepted Answer

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)

Answer

Thin-layer chromatography (TLC)

Answer

Infrared spectroscopy (IR)

Answer

X-ray fluorescence (XRF)

Question 2

What does an alert from an accelerant detection canine (ADC) at a fire scene indicate to the investigator?

Accepted Answer

The potential presence of ignitable liquid residues requiring sample collection

Answer

A confirmed arson fire has occurred

Answer

The exact pour pattern of the accelerant

Answer

The identity of the accelerant used

Question 3

Which collection method is most widely used for extracting ignitable liquid residues from fire debris samples in the laboratory?

Accepted Answer

Passive headspace concentration using activated charcoal strips

Answer

Water extraction with solvent wash

Answer

Steam distillation under vacuum

Answer

Acid digestion followed by solvent rinse

Question 4

According to ASTM E1618, into how many categories are ignitable liquids classified for fire debris analysis?

Accepted Answer

10

Answer

5

Answer

8

Answer

12

Question 5

What effect does firefighting water application typically have on ignitable liquid accelerant evidence?

Accepted Answer

It can dilute but may not eliminate ignitable liquid residues trapped in substrates

Answer

It completely destroys all ignitable liquid residues

Answer

It has no measurable effect on accelerant evidence

Answer

It chemically neutralizes all hydrocarbon compounds

Question 6

Which type of burn pattern is most commonly associated with a poured ignitable liquid accelerant on a floor?

Accepted Answer

Irregular low burn patterns with defined edges at floor level

Answer

High V-pattern centered on a wall outlet

Answer

Inverted cone pattern extending from the ceiling downward

Answer

Uniform char pattern consistent with natural fuel load

Question 7

What is the recommended container for collecting fire debris samples destined for ignitable liquid residue analysis?

Accepted Answer

New, unlined metal paint cans or nylon oven bags

Answer

Sealed plastic zip-lock evidence bags

Answer

Paper grocery bags with evidence tape

Answer

Glass mason jars with rubber-sealed lids