Keele Research Repository

Luminol is a sensitive test used by forensic investigators to detect blood over a large area in crime scenes. When in contact with blood, luminol emits a bright blue light. This reaction, known as chemiluminescence, was utilised in this study to test luminol sensitivity on 60, 100% cotton and 60, 100% polyester swatches measuring 10cm by 10cm. All samples were washed once, twice or thrice with non-biological or biological laundry capsules, air-dried and subsequently sprayed with luminol and photographed in a dark room. Blood was detected on all 60 blood-stained swatches regardless of washing patterns or laundry capsules. The 60 unstained controls produced little or no chemiluminescence thus making luminol a sensitive and useful test for detecting blood on fabrics found in crime scenes.