Introduction to Environmental Forensics, Second Edition, is a complete reference for the practicing environmental forensics expert, with topics ranging from emerging statistical methods to state-of-the-art analytical techniques, such as gas chromatography-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry and polytopic vector analysis. This exciting reference prepared by leading international experts provides the reader with techniques for identifying the source of a contaminant release, identifying when the release occurred and the extent of human exposure. Numerous examples and case studies are provided to illustrate the application of these forensic techniques in environmental investigations. Sources of potential bias and misapplication of these techniques are also presented. Introduction to Environmental Forensics, Second Edition, provides the forensic scientist, the environmental consultant/regulator and the environmental attorney with a complete toolbox for conducting forensic investigations. Because of the multidisciplinary approach, even experienced practitioners including chemists, hydrogeologists, soil scientists, statisticians and contaminant transport modelers will find the techniques presented in this book of tremendous practical value. Introduction to Environmental Forensics, Second Edition, also provides suggestions for critically reviewing forensic techniques while taking into account the original purpose of the information collection. Key Features: This volume provides the most current coverage of issues and techniques crucial to forensic investigations of environmental disasters.

It shows the evolution of the field, including topics such as chemical fingerprinting of hydrocarbons and PCBs, forensic air dispersion modeling and analysis, and soil and groundwater modeling. New chapters and topics include: sampling and laboratory analysis issues, scanning electron microscopy, dendrochronology, laser ablation techniques and the application of microbiological techniques in environmental forensic investigations. This edition is a thorough, current introduction to an important and growing scientific discipline. Book jacket.