Recent advances in the study of burned bone and their implications for forensic anthropology

Human identification from burned remains is a common requirement of forensic anthropology, yet the techniques used are devised for use on unmodified bone dimensions. Bone experiences extensive and significant heat-induced alteration which decreases the accuracy and precision of identification methods. An holistic approach to the study of burned bone is adopted and demonstrates the interconnectivity and hierarchy of these changes. It is demonstrated that these changes affect all forms of anthropological technique.