Fingerprint Sourcebook - Chapter 7: Latent Print Development

• NCJ Number: 225327
• Author(s): Brian Yamashita; Mike French
• Date Published: 2010
• Length: 68 pages
• Agencies: NIJ
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)

Annotation

This chapter describes the many processes, techniques and methods in latent print development.

Abstract

Latent fingerprint development may be achieved with a wide array of optical, physical, and chemical processes, and may be achieved with a wide array of optical, physical, and chemical processes. Because some techniques are often intricately related and continuously changing, it is imperative that those involved in laboratory and crime scene processing be well trained and well practiced. This chapter describes the nature of latent print residue and the most commonly used fingerprint development techniques. The following processes and techniques are discussed: latent print powders; ninhydrin and analogues; 1,8-Diazafluoren-9-one (DFO); 1,2-Indanedione; methylthioninhydrin (5-MTN); modifications for use on chemically treated paper, cyanoacrylate fuming; fluorescence examination; vacuum metal deposition; blood enhancement techniques; aqueous techniques; and formulations for chemical solutions. Figures, tables, and references