Standards and unknown samples are acquired by GC/MS and processed by using pattern-matching software in order to reduce the analyst’s workload. Data processing and data review conform to current guidelines and working practices in arson analysis.

The investigation of suspected arson cases is a labour-intensive operation; not only is the work highly repetitive in nature, but very large volumes of data are generated which need to be reviewed. The specialised skills of an experienced analyst can be significantly augmented by a sophisticated data collection and analysis system, which relieves the analyst from many of the more tedious aspects of the work.

Although the characterisation of pure flammable liquids is a relatively simple task, real-world samples are generally complex mixtures comprising both artifacts and pyrolysis products in addition to the masked accelerant. Due to these complications, the identification process is rarely simple, and the analyst is required to engage in exhaustive reviews of complex GC/MS chromatograms. A skilled arson investigator can often identify an accelerant hidden in complex chromatographic data by recognising patterns formed by the relative abundance of key compounds. Dependence on this level of skill leaves a laboratory highly reliant on individual specialists.