CHAPTER 1: Detection Strategies for Traditional Illicit Substances

The complex nature of illicit substances makes for one of the most challenging sample matrices for forensic analytical chemists and this is coupled with the need to deal with the overlay of legal and health policies. This chapter looks at the key fundamental concepts that are the foundation for successful detection strategies towards traditional illicit substances. The analyst needs to consider a range of challenges associated with sampling regimens and how industry standards influence these across a range of jurisdictions. Significant technological advancement has occurred in this space in recent years and this chapter highlights the current forensic analyst's toolbox while aligning this with the policy considerations.