A novel fluorescent small particle reagent for detecting latent fingerprints on wet non-porous items

Abstract

A novel, fluorescent small particle reagent (SPR) based on zinc carbonate hydroxide monohydrate, ZnCO3·2Zn(OH)2·H2O – also called basic zinc carbonate – has been formulated. The other ingredients of the formulation are crystal violet dye and a commercial liquid detergent. The composition develops clear, sharp and detailed fingerprints on a large number of non-porous items, after these were immersed in water for up to 36h. The fluorescent nature of the reagent helps enhance weak, fragmented and chance fingerprints that are often found at crime scenes. The raw materials used to prepare the SPR are cost-effective and non-hazardous. The novel formulation develops prints of a better quality as compared to the conventional, molybdenum(IV) sulfide-based composition.