Electronic Fingerprint Development Device "Fuma-Room"

The 2 main objectives of this proposal are to:
1) Develop a small portable electronic device which will improve fingerprint development time and expand fingerprint development by optimizing cyanoacrylate vapor plumes through the cured pellet format. Research investigators will focus on: a) developing a small, portable device that is user friendly, of low cost with a dual use for homicide and interior of vehicle crime scenes; b) temperature analysis, thermal integration of equipment profile; modified temperature fluctuations, basis electrostatic analysis; c) synchronize Fuma-Room research with current research (NIJ#2006-DN-BX-KO37) with regard to evaluation of sublimation dyes; d) disseminating prototypes to crime scene investigators within the state of West Virginia and national localities for monitored field tests in real crime scene environments.
2) Develop a Temperature controlled chamber which will improve fingerprint development time and expand fingerprint development. Preliminary test results show a relationship between the temperature of the item being processed, ambient humidity, and the quality of the developed print. This research will be used to create a temperature controlled chamber that will optimize temperature and humidity parameters for fingerprint development. Additional studies will be conducted to examine how UV light exposure can improve many polymerization processes.

ca/ncf