Summary
"Trace evidence frequently encountered at crime scenes is currently collected using a variety of methods depending on the type(s) of evidence. Swabbing of biological materials and taping exhibits for hairs and fibres are the current methods of choice. A new product, Water Soluble Tape (Scotch Brand Mask Tape Plus Il) was compared to these traditional techniques. Use of Trace Evidence Gathering Tape is recommended for use in gathering non-biological evidence. Its use was found to reduce laboratory time, although not without some considerations for crime scene technicians in the field. Collection of biological materials through swabbing was found to be more effective than taping."