Abstract

CHAVARRO, Diego; QUINONES, Edixon  and  CASTELLANOS, Daniel. Application of strontium isotope analysis for human identification in Colombia. Rev. Crim. [online]. 2022, vol.64, n.1, pp.193-205.  Epub Oct 05, 2021. ISSN 1794-3108.  https://doi.org/10.47741/17943108.339.

The article encompasses a review of the up-to-date research related to the application of isotope analysis for human identification in Colombia. In particular, it emphasizes the utility of strontium isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) to track the place of origin of an unidentified body. The review emphasises the importance of the Colombian geological variability which could affect the diversity of the bioavailable strontium, in a given space and time. This diversity of the bioavailable strontium can be reflected in the spatial distribution of the strontium isotopic composition in different human tissues (teeth, bones, hair and nails) of the inhabitants of Colombia. This is caused by the transfer of the isotopic signal from the bioavailable strontium to human tissues. Among the conclusions of the literature review is a mention of the importance of the use of strontium (Sr) isotopes in human identification in the Colombian context as well as its forensic application, and its possible limitations regarding the use of this methodology in the country.

Keywords : Victim identification; Isotopes; strontium (Sr); human identification; Colombian geology; bioavailable strontium; review.

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