Analysis of artificial fireplace logs by high temperature gas chromatography.
High temperature gas chromatography is used to analyze the wax of artificial fireplace logs (firelogs). Firelogs from several different manufacturers are studied and compared. This study shows that the wax within a single firelog is homogeneous and that the wax is also uniform throughout a multi-firelog package. Different brands are shown to have different wax compositions. Firelogs of the same brand, but purchased in different locations, also have different wax compositions. With this information it may be possible to associate an unknown firelog sample to a known sample, but a definitive statement of the origin cannot be made.
Kuk
Raymond J
RJ
Forensic Chemist, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Forensic Science Laboratory, Rockville, MD 20850, USA.