What needs to be clarified
The task is to assess the particles’ significance in relation to the objects’ provenance and handling conditions.
Materials to prepare
- Objects and retained packaging without further cleaning.
- Records of discovery, separate or shared storage and movements.
- Comparison samples identifying where and how they were obtained.
What to compare
- Check which particles relate to each object and its packaging.
- Compare fibre features and adequacy of the reference material.
- Consider alternative transfer routes consistent with the known circumstances.
Possible outcome of the analysis
A possible result describes particle similarities and the limits of their use in supporting a contact explanation.
Limits of the conclusions
A common fibre group does not establish one unique source; circumstances and timing of transfer may remain uncertain.