Fiber Analysis

Picking Up The Pieces: A lab on Fiber Analysis
Objective: To collect fiber evidence, then analyze it to identify its source.
Procedure:
1. Collect a red fiber from the “victim” by carefully lifting the fiber with a pair of forceps. Do not touch the fiber with your hands. Place fiber on a piece of white paper, then fold the paper in half twice.
2. Carry the fiber to your lab station. Prepare a wet-mount slide of the fiber by placing it on the slide, adding a drop of water, and covering the fiber and water with a cover slip.
3. Examine the fiber under low, medium, and high magnification of your microscope. Sketch what you see. Note any pits or striations on the fiber.
4. Compare this fiber to known samples of wool, rayon, silk, and cotton. Sketch each of these samples at the magnification that gives you the best view and record these sketches here.
5. Light your candle and compare the burning characteristics of the unknown fiber to the known samples. Reco...