On the detection of fingerprints by laser excited luminescence

Abstract

Two surveys were carried out to determine the percentage of latent fingerprints detectable by their inherent luminescence under laser illumination. Less than one-fifth of 240 samples each containing four prints on paper gave luminescent prints. The luminescence from these was weak and only detectable under close scrutiny. Similar results were obtained for 120 samples each containing one print on glass. Forty-one of the samples showing no luminescence were sprayed, approximately one month after deposition, with a solution containing the fluorescent tagging agent 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole (NBD chloride). After treatment with NBD chloride, 37 of these samples gave luminescent prints, many of which were intensely luminescent and contained good ridge detail.