Urine Identification by FTIR

A homeowner was distressed by a liquid dripping into their basement. Suspecting it was urine from their neighbor’s dogs, a local government code enforcer contacted our lab for identification. After several other labs declined, we decided to use FTIR analysis.

FTIR Analysis Process

  • Performed over the 4th of July weekend: Dr. Charles Anderson analyzed the vile liquid, both as a liquid and as dried residue.

Findings

  • Composition: The liquid was primarily water with some dense constituents forming small lumps.
  • Organic materials: It contained proteins, amine bonds, carboxyl bonds, and amino acids, consistent with urine.
  • Contaminants: The liquid picked up chemicals from flooring materials and possibly aged, involving bacteria or fungi.

Conclusion

The FTIR analysis indicated that the liquid closely resembled fresh human urine, suggesting it was primarily urine.

A customer feared the liquid was canine urine. Through FTIR analysis, we confirmed it was most likely urine. Please feel free to read the full report here.

Have unique identification needs? Contact us to discuss your concerns and find the perfect solution.

Picture of a jar of orange-ish liquid with some particles on the inner sides of the jar identified through FTIR analysis.
A customer supplied this liquid sample to us fearing it was canine urine. Through FTIR analysis, we were able to notify our customer that the sample was most likely urine.