Assessing the impact of corrosive acids on human bone integrity in forensic context.

ABSTRACT

Dissolving bodies is a contemporary method of disposing of human remains and has been practiced throughout the years. This research article discussed the impact of readily available corrosive chemicals, such as Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Sulfuric acid (H2SO4), and Expelz™ toilet cleaner, on human bone. Unfortunately, the existing literature on this subject is scarce, with only a few studies conducted on human bones. To address this gap, we conducted an experimental analysis using human sternum bone fragments. These samples were subjected to immersion in different acids, namely HCl and H2SO4, at two concentrations (10% and 37%), and Expelz™ toilet cleaner. This research aims to describe the impact of toilet cleaner, sulphuric acid, and hydrochloric acid on bone tissue deterioration at various time intervals. Further, the morphological alterations weight loss, and cytological analysis of bone tissue residue with various acid concentrations and immersion times (3.5, 9, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 h) were analyzed. Among the chemicals examined, it is evident that 37% hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4), regardless of refreshment, exhibit the highest reactivity, resulting in the complete decomposition of hard tissue within a few hours. In contrast, the behaviour of 10% H2SO4 reveals a more intricate degradation process characterized by fluctuations in weight loss. These distinct reactivity profiles under different conditions are crucial in understanding the potential for rapid weight loss, signifying high reactivity and more gradual weight loss, indicating a faster decomposition rate. Notably, refreshment of the solution enhanced the reactivity of both HCl and H2SO4.