Can fire residue testing identify the source or intensity of the fire?

To some extent, yes. Fire residue testing can often indicate the type of materials burned and, in certain cases, the temperature or oxygen level of the fire.

For instance, high concentrations of PAHs suggest a low-oxygen, smouldering fire, while dry mineral ash points to high-temperature combustion. Chemical markers like chlorinated residues can hint that plastics or PVC materials were involved.

However, residue testing alone can’t always pinpoint the exact ignition source — it’s better used to understand the contamination profile and guide safe remediation.