Analytical contributions of lanthanide based metal-organic frame works as luminescent markers: Recent trends in gunshot residue analysis

Abstract Gunshot Residue (GSR) serves as one of the crucial evidence associated with the shooting incidences. GSR analysis facilitates exploration of significant information of forensic importance such as identification of shooter, determination of range of fire, reconstruction of shooting incidence etc. Composition of primer and propellant charge forms the foundation for the analysis of GSR. Advances in ammunition manufacturing, towards the development of Lead free ammunition, posed challenges to the conventional methodology of GSR examination. Lanthanide based Metal Organic Frame Works, as luminescent markers, have found to be very effective for the GSR analysis originated from lead free ammunition. It produces luminescence that enables the visualization of the GSR traces with portable UV lamps and effective examination with different techniques such as Video Spectral Comparator, SEM-EDX and Raman Spectroscopy. These Luminescent markers offer several advantages such as facile analysis, enhanced collection efficiency, cost effective approach etc. Development of GSR markers seems to be creating new dimensions in the field of Forensic Ballistics. In Forensic context, it will be very significant to anticipate and encourage the use of tagged ammunition. This review article discusses the chemistry and potential of lanthanide based metal-organic frame works as luminescent GSR marker reported in recent past along with its future perspectives.