AFTE Store - The Use of Antimicrobial Solutions for the Preservation of Toolmarks on Bone

Body dismemberment by the use of sharp-edged instruments, hacking implements, and saws often leave toolmarks on bone. Long-term dry storage of bone results in shrinkage that can have an adverse effect on the toolmark striations. To prevent shrinkage, fourteen antimicrobial solutions were tested as preservatives on the bone and toolmark striations. Seven preservative solutions were identified as possible alternatives to dry storage. They include: Buffered 10% formalin, fixed in formalin then transferred to ethyl alcohol, 70% Isopropyl alcohol, 93% Ethyl alcohol, 5% Iodine Solution, 10% Iodine Solution and 6% Sodium Hypochlorite.

Full Journal: AFTE Journal Vol 47 No 2 (2015)