4.1 A scientifically supported identification of a chemical substance present in suspected seized drug evidence requires the use of an appropriate analytical scheme using validated methods by competent forensic science practitioners (FSPs) (refer to Practices E2917 and E2326) in a quality-controlled process (refer to Practice E3255).

4.2 This practice applies to the identification of chemical substances in all gross forms of suspected seized drug samples (for example, powders, liquids, tablets) including the identification of the chemical components of botanical materials (for example, mescaline, opiates, psilocin).

4.2.1 This practice does not apply to botanical identifications, nor differentiation of the forms of cannabis (for example, jurisdictional definitions of marijuana and hemp).

4.3 This practice provides minimum requirements for the forensic identification of chemical substances in suspected seized drug samples by an FSSP.

4.4 This practice requires an analytical scheme to incorporate orthogonal analytical techniques and methods. It does not discourage the use of any particular analytical technique or method within an analytical scheme.

4.5 This practice does not dictate specific analytical schemes; the analytical scheme selected can vary depending on the substances present, the sample matrix, the jurisdiction, and the analytical techniques and methods available.

4.6 The testing necessary when no controlled substances are identified is a decision made by the FSSP and is outside the scope of this practice.

4.7 Performance characteristics and acceptance criteria for individual analytical techniques and methods are outside the scope of this practice.

1.1 This practice covers the design of analytical schemes used for the identification of chemical substances present in suspected seized drug samples submitted to a forensic science service provider (FSSP).

1.1.1 An analytical scheme is a combination of selected analytical techniques and validated analytical methods (refer to Practice E2549) that are appropriate for the substance being identified, used to reach a result.

1.2 This practice provides a list of analytical techniques categorized on the basis of the highest potential level of selectivity they achieve.

1.3 This practice covers the minimum requirements for the identification of chemical substances in suspected seized drug evidence.

1.4 This standard is intended for use by competent forensic science practitioners with the requisite formal education, discipline-specific training (refer to Practices E2917 and E2326), and demonstrated proficiency to perform forensic casework.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.