Decomposition of Pork Flesh with Tattoo Study

An examination of fluorescence emitted from temporary tattoos placed on pig skin. The aim of this research was to determine if an unknown body at post mortem could be identified from the tattoos even after 3 weeks of decomposition. 

The various wavelengths of Tech Long laser light were able to assist in enhancing the temporary tattoos. Some of the chemicals released into the water as part of the decomposition process of the pig skin made the water fluoresce as can be seen in the bottled samples; this offers interesting opportunities to look for bodies in lakes and rivers etc. if they indeed fluoresce.

Decomposition of Pork Flesh with Tattoo Study

Professor John P. Cassella 
Department of Criminal Justice and Forensics 
School of Law, Policing and Forensics

Science Centre, Staffordshire University