New visualization agents to reveal the hidden secrets of latent fingerprints

Abstract

Abstract Background Forensic scientists have exposed number of ways for recovering usable finger marks that divulge the identity of the person involved or linked to the felony. Numerous incremental progresses were made over decades by introducing different powder formulations for development of latent fingerprints which overcome the use of chemicals which are toxic and pose potential health jeopardies. Result In the present study, a less expensive, simple and easily accessible household materials such as cumin, Coriander powder, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, etc. have been used to disclose the mysteries of latent fingerprints on an aluminum foil by dusting method which gives good results. The best results were shown by limestone and Fuller’s earth. Conclusions Our original study has come up with more of such novel and innovative dusting powders that has shown momentous outcomes with the metal substrate. This type of work has not been reported previously and can provide beneficial information to the sleuths in cases of dearth or non-availability of orthodox fingerprint development powders and chemicals.

Keywords

• Latent fingerprints
• fuller’s earth
• Limestone
• Household products
• Powder dusting method
• Turmeric