Forensic Chemistry

Scope & Guideline

Advancing the science of justice through chemistry.

Introduction

Welcome to the Forensic Chemistry information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Forensic Chemistry, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN2468-1709
PublisherELSEVIER
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2016 to 2024
AbbreviationFORENSIC CHEM / Forensic Chem.
Frequency5 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressRADARWEG 29, 1043 NX AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Forensic Chemistry' is dedicated to advancing the field of forensic science through the application of chemical analysis and methodologies. Its core focus is on the development and validation of analytical techniques for the identification and characterization of forensic evidence, particularly in relation to drugs, explosives, and biological materials.
  1. Analytical Chemistry Techniques:
    The journal emphasizes the use of various analytical chemistry techniques, including mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, and spectroscopy, to analyze forensic evidence and develop new methodologies.
  2. Drug Analysis and Identification:
    A significant focus is placed on the identification and quantification of controlled substances, including synthetic cannabinoids and new psychoactive substances, often employing advanced techniques for rapid and sensitive detection.
  3. Environmental Forensics:
    Research covers the analysis of environmental samples, such as soil and water, to trace contamination and assess the presence of illicit substances, contributing to crime scene investigations.
  4. Biological Evidence Analysis:
    The journal includes studies on the analysis of biological materials, such as blood and hair, for the detection of drugs or toxins, which is crucial for understanding postmortem changes and implications in forensic investigations.
  5. Emerging Technologies in Forensic Science:
    There is a consistent emphasis on exploring and validating innovative technologies, including machine learning applications and novel sampling techniques, to enhance the forensic analysis capabilities.
The journal 'Forensic Chemistry' has shown significant evolution in its thematic focus, highlighting emerging trends that respond to the rapidly changing landscape of forensic science. These themes reflect current needs in forensic investigations and the incorporation of advanced analytical techniques.
  1. Synthetic Cannabinoids and New Psychoactive Substances:
    There is a marked increase in research dedicated to the identification and analysis of synthetic cannabinoids and new psychoactive substances, reflecting their rising prevalence in forensic cases.
  2. Machine Learning and Data Analysis Techniques:
    The application of machine learning and data analysis techniques in forensic investigations is gaining traction, showcasing a trend towards leveraging computational methods for enhanced analytical capabilities.
  3. Drug-Facilitated Crime Investigations:
    Emerging themes include the analysis of drug-facilitated crimes, particularly through the investigation of metabolites and biomarkers, emphasizing the need for improved detection methods in complex cases.
  4. Environmental and Trace Evidence Analysis:
    An increasing number of studies are focusing on trace evidence analysis, including gunshot residues and environmental contaminants, which are critical for linking suspects to crime scenes.
  5. Rapid Screening and Field Analysis Techniques:
    There is a growing interest in rapid screening methods and portable technologies that allow for on-site analysis of forensic evidence, which is crucial for timely investigations.

Declining or Waning

While 'Forensic Chemistry' continues to thrive in various areas, certain themes have seen a decline in recent publications. These waning scopes may reflect shifts in forensic priorities or advancements in analytical methodologies that have rendered previous approaches less relevant.
  1. Traditional Forensic Techniques:
    There appears to be a reduction in articles focusing on traditional forensic techniques, such as basic fingerprint analysis, as newer methodologies and technologies gain prominence.
  2. General Reviews on Forensic Practices:
    The frequency of comprehensive reviews on established forensic practices has decreased, likely due to the journal's shift towards more innovative and technologically advanced research.
  3. Chemical Profiling of Older Substances:
    Research concentrating on the chemical profiling of older, less prevalent substances has diminished, possibly as forensic science moves toward addressing newer psychoactive substances and their implications.

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