Wed. May 25, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM 301B (International Conference Hall, Makuhari Messe)

convener:Balazs Bradak(Kobe University, Faculty of Maritime Sciences), convener:Noriko Kawamura(Japan Coast Guard Academy), Ritsuko Sugita(National Research Institute of Police Science), convener:Christopher A Gomez(Kobe University Faculty of Maritime Sciences Volcanic Risk at Sea Research Group), Chairperson:Ritsuko Sugita(National Research Institute of Police Science), Noriko Kawamura(Japan Coast Guard Academy), Christopher A Gomez(Kobe University Faculty of Maritime Sciences Volcanic Risk at Sea Research Group), Balazs Bradak(Kobe University, Faculty of Maritime Sciences)

Forensic geoscience is concerned with the application of Earth and environmental science information. The method of investigations, which may come before a court of law, is the application of (sensu lato) geology though the analysis of soil, rock fragments, minerals, and sediments samples. Geophysical exploration, in the places that maybe connected with criminal behaviour or disasters, are also included in this study (Pye & Croft, 2004; Pringle et al., 2012). Forensic geoscience applies various methods, including geographical information systems, field work using ground penetrating radar (GPR), and laboratory experiments (rock and environmental magnetism, and geochemistry with a focus on soil and sediments).
Forensic geoscience is applied to geohazards to investigate the geological risk as well as the cause of the disasters (Barone & Di Maggio, 2018). Among the many goals, geohazard profiling has had significant roles in the disaster hit areas, such as searching for missing persons and the study of possible damage in developed environments (structures and buildings) for the prevention of further disasters.
Despite the increasing popularity, there is still a lack of permanent scientific discussions of novel ideas and developments.
The goal of this session is twofold: 1) the promotion of forensic geoscience through introducing investigations related to crime cases and disasters, and 2) the initiation of new ideas and methods related to forensic geoscience.
As for the goals, this session call for studies including new angles on the application of methods, such as geomorphology, GPR measurements, geochemistry, rock and environmental magnetism, and modelling (even at theoretical level), all which are to be supported by scientific analogues and/or experiments.