Chemical-Metallographic Examination and Vehicle Identification in a Motorcycle-type Vehicle: Case Report

Abstract

Vehicle identification tests and chemical-metallographic tests are attributions carried out by the criminal expert. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify a motorcycle by evaluating its identifying elements and performing a chemical-metallographic examination on the Vehicle Identification Number (NIV) and the engine's alphanumeric sequence, in order to recover the original adulterated characters. This is a case report related to a motorcycle-type self-propelled, which exhibits black automotive paint without the alphanumeric vehicle identification plate. By means of a macroscopic analysis of the vehicle's identification elements, it was found initially: underlying red to black paint placed on the fuel tank; plate affixed to the vehicle chassis showing originality characteristics and expressing the year of manufacture 1999; the alphanumeric sequences present in the NIV and past engine were, respectively, partially and fully suppressed by mechanical action. After preparing the metallic surfaces of the chassis and engine, the Besseman reagent was applied to the NIV and to the metallic alloy of the engine or concentrated hydrochloric acid (35%). After the application of the reagents, the revelation of the original underlying characters fully belonging to the NIV was observed, as well as the characters recorded in the motor vehicle were evidenced almost entirely. Thus, through the examinations performed, it was technically possible to identify the analyzed vehicle. Furthermore, it should be noted that there is a literary gap related to the theme addressed in the field of forensic sciences, which gives rise to new studies and similar reports.