Chemistry – Detective or Criminal?

Category "Poster", 11. – 12. grade

Alvina Ilin, 12th grade[1],

Valentina Tkachova, 12th grade[1]                                                        

Supervisor: Petya Petrova

1. 91. “Prof. Konstantin Galabov” German Language Secondary School – Sofia (Bulgaria)

https://doi.org/10.53656/nat2025-3.16

Abstract. The project explores the dual role of chemistry in the context of currency counterfeiting – both as a means of committing a crime and as a tool for its detection. Authors analyze the methods counterfeiters use to replicate the structure, inks, and security features of banknotes using chemicals, including polymers, fluorescent pigments, and metal compounds. On the other hand, chemical approaches for verifying authenticity are also presented, such as ultraviolet tests for banknotes and acid tests to determine the alloy composition of modern coins. The conclusion of the analysis is that chemistry is neither primarily a “detective” nor a “criminal”, but a powerful scientific tool, the impact of which depends on the intentions of the person using it.

Keywords: counterfeit; chemical analysis; fluorescence

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