Visitors to ChemCentre’s Open Day will not only get a chance to go behind the scenes at the State’s premier chemical and forensic science facility, but they will also have the chance to make their own valuable contribution to science.
ChemCentre has established a fibres database, believed to be one of only two of its kind in the world, which is playing a key role in assisting criminal investigations in Western Australia.
The fibres database currently contains more than 20,000 fibres which have been individually sorted based on fibre type, digital images and UV-visible absorption characteristics, and is being used to compare with fibres evidence recovered from crime scenes.
Visitors will be invited to provide samples of fibres from their clothing at ChemCentre Open Day on Saturday October 26, 2019 which will be added to the database.
ChemCentre Open Day is a free community event that encourages visitors to make science their mission and connect with chemistry through a range of displays, hands-on activities and laboratory tours.
Other highlights include free soil testing for garden enthusiasts, an opportunity to dress in HAZMAT protective gear to decontaminate a mock clandestine drug laboratory, and a chance to test simple skills while wearing ‘under the influence’ goggles at the WA Police ‘Booze Bus’. More at
As stated by Science Minister Dave Kelly:
“Western Australians have a unique opportunity to help solve crimes in WA, by donating their clothing fibres this Saturday at ChemCentre’s Open Day.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for kids, women and men to connect with science and learn about WA’s chemistry superheroes who help safeguard the community, industry and the environment through their work.
“Kids will also gain valuable insight into the variety and diversity of future careers in science.”
