Historical development of expertise in forensic chemical analysis. General survey, illustrated by case studies from the Viennese Institute.

The history of forensic chemical analysis shows a development from the mere quotation of a concentration value to an expert opinion which helps to explain manifold circumstances of the case under consideration. The development of forensic expertises on chemical problems connected to forensic medicine reveals two essential stages: 1. A period, when sensual perceptions were the only means of investigation and 2. a period, when developments in chromatographic separation and spectrometric identification have permitted objectified results.