Case Study: JPAC (US Central Identification Laboratory) achieves accurate POW/MIA identifications and cost/time savings with 3D Systems' Projet CJP 3D printing

US Central Identification Laboratory Delivers results with CJP 3D printing

The US Central Identification Laboratory of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) uses 3D Systems’ Projet CJP 3D printer to tackle the emotionally and technically difficult task of identifying long-unresolved POW/MIA remains. With DNA often unavailable and traditional model suppliers costly and inconsistent, JPAC needed accurate, tangible skull models from CT scans to refine skull photographic superimposition and other forensic comparisons for cases dating back to the Korean War and earlier.

JPAC began printing skulls in-house from CT data using the Projet CJP, achieving laboratory-grade accuracy (a t-test showed no significant difference between skulls and their prints) while reducing cost and turnaround time. The printed models have improved identification methods, aided neurosurgical planning at a nearby medical center, and supported historical preservation projects (e.g., CSS Alabama and USS Monitor reproductions), helping investigators, clinicians and families move toward closure.

JPAC

Audrey Meehan

DNA Specialist