The analysis disclosed that the sample contained none of the organic compounds that are characteristic of combustion engines using hydrocarbons. An electronic microscopic analysis of the same P1b sample showed the presence of Iron overlaid over limestone rocks in the form of striations about one micron thick. This iron element was not accompanied by chromium, manganese or nickel as commonly found in steel. The technique employed here (using a CAMECA probe) did not allow the investigators to distinguish between free iron or iron oxyde.

4. Electronic Diffraction Studies (Toulouse University)

Further analysis was conducted at the Paul Sabatier University in Toulouse (Rangueil Faculty) by dissolving parts of the samples in water, dessicating them by ultrasound dispersion and processing them by electronic diffraction. When applied to P2, this analysis led to the identification of at least three compounds: BaCa(CO₃)2, (CaO₂,8H₂O) and to a lesser extent Fe₃O₄. The first two compounds may have been an artifact of the process itself.

When applied to P1b, a larger concentration of (CaO₂,8H₂O) was found in crystalline form. It is noteworthy that at least one of the components of this sample is in a mono-crystalline state, which is not found in the reference sample (namely P2).

5. Control Study (Metz): Mass Spectrometry by Ion Bombardment

In order to permit a more objective interpretation of the analytical results, GEPAN entrusted various laboratories with the same tasks. Thus the LAMMA analysis laboratory at Metz University was sent part of the soil, both from the reference sample and from the hardened ring. The scientists at Metz performed a mass spectrometry analysis by ion bombardment. When applied to the ring sample they found the following:

• Negative ion analysis disclosed that the larger black particles (100 microns) exhibited the presence of C₂H₂O with a significant effective section. They also found ions 63 and 79 which are typical of iron phosphate. The negative spectra thus obtained were analogous to those of some polymers or petrochemical residues

• Positive ion analysis showed that the black particles differed from the surrounding dirt through the lack of Aluminum. The elements Sodium, magnesium and titanium were only present in very small amounts. The dominant component was Calcium. Other fragments already found in negative ion analysis confirmed the existence of a carbon-based polymer matrix.

From these tests it was concluded that the larger black particles appeared to be a combustion residue.