The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of fiber material on sharp force trauma signatures on bone. It is hypothesized that variability in fabric layers will create different Sharp Force Trauma (SFT) impressions on bone. More specifically, if the fabric layers are increased, then there will be fewer distinctions between serrated and straight-edged knives because of the resistance of the fabrics.
Serrated and straight-edged knives of different lengths penetrated via a guided-drop device 13 Bos taurus rib samples, both wrapped in layers of cotton and with no fabric. Bone samples were extracted through maceration and analyzed macroscopically and microscopically (at 5 – 50x). Signatures of sharp force trauma effects on bone were compiled and compared across layer groups. This research is important because it may enhance identification of sharp force tool class in traumatized human remains that are clothed.