Crystal Pattern Matching Recovers Obliterated Serial Numbers From Metal

chicksdaddy writes Criminals beware: researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have figured out how to recover serial numbers obliterated from metal surfaces such as firearms and automobiles — a common problem in forensic examinations. According to this report, NIST researchers used a technique called electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to read, in the crystal structure pattern, imprints on steel that had been removed by polishing. ... The more perfect the crystal structure, the stronger and clearer the pattern. Software can then calculate the pattern quality to reveal crystal damage; areas with more damage produce lower quality patterns. In the NIST experiments, described in Forensic Science International, researchers hammered the letter 'X' into a polished stainless steel plate. The letter stamps were as deep as 140 micrometers, meeting federal regulations for firearm serial numbers. The researchers then polished the metal again to remove all visible traces of the letters, and collected the EBSD diffraction patterns and pattern quality data and analyzed them for evidence of the imprints.

Comments

Overstamp First?

[theshowmecanuck]

What if you use some tool and hammer to overstamp the serial numbers. Like scribbling over it. Then grind it down. Or if it is in a place that can be heated and cooled... like annealing... where any loss in strength from the operation, were it to happen, wouldn't be an issue. Would that change the underlying crystal structure significantly. I'm sure it would affect it some, but would it be enough to allow the crystal structure to 'reset' and erase the original stamp marks?

Millions of dollars in research.

[He Who Has No Name]

Defeated by a $59 Dremel tool that completely removes the metal from that area of the frame...

Could Be Handy in the Gun Shop

[CanHasDIY]

This could actually be useful for gun shops, since we have to meticulously catalog the serial numbers of all firearms that come in and go out. We often get older (like, 150 year older), used firearms where the serials are worn down and difficult to read, even with a jewelers loupe.

Or rather it would be useful for gun shops, if the process isn't as cost-prohibitive as I presume it will be.