ASTM E1618-25

1.1 This test method covers the identification of ignitable liquids based on interpretation of gas chromatography-electron ionization mass spectrometry (GC-MS) data within the context of fire debris analysis.

1.2 This test method is suitable for data obtained from liquids and extracts recovered from fire debris samples, including those that contain high background levels of substrate materials, pyrolysis products, combustion products, or a combination of these materials.

1.3 This test method is also suitable for the identification of single compounds, simple mixtures, and non-petroleum based ignitable liquids.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This test method is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (refer to Practice E2917) and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 This test method covers procedures for the generation, evaluation, and interpretation of GC-MS data for the identification of ignitable liquids.

5.2 The data processing, evaluation, and interpretation techniques described in this test method facilitate the identification of ignitable liquids by reducing interference from peaks generated from the matrix.

5.3 The interpretation process incorporates considerations of the variability within each ignitable liquid class in conjunction with the variability of matrices found in fire debris samples.

5.4 In some instances, chromatographic patterns are detected that resemble ignitable liquids but identification is not possible due to the complexity of the fire debris sample.