Vanadium pentoxide nanorods in latent finger print detection

Abstract

Nanostructures contribute vital applications for surface-based science including latent fingerprints (LFPs) detection and reconstruction. Fingerprints are unique to an individual, matching the finger prints help to identify culprits. Vanadium Pentoxide (V2O5) nanorods were synthesized via hydrothermal method using pomegranate peel extract as fuel, towards their use in fingerprint development. PXRD patterns confirmed the formation of orthorhombic V2O5 crystal structure. Raman vibration modes at 144 cm−1 and 994 cm−1 signifies the characteristic orthorhombic V2O5 structural formation, FTIR spectra shows vibration bands of V2O5, UV–vis spectroscopy shows an intrinsic absorption band at ∼418 nm corresponding to electron transitions (O2p → V3d). The energy band gap (Eg) estimated from absorption spectrum was found to be ∼2.35 eV. Formation of nanorods was observed from SEM micrographs and particle size was found to be 30 nm from TEM images. Photoluminescence emission studies were performed and yellow –orange (brown) emission was observed from CIE diagram. The characteristic brown/Yellow-orange color of V2O5 nanorods supports tracing of LFPs on many kind of surfaces in visible light which eliminates the need for illuminating source. Hence, V2O5 nanorods find potential application in Forensic sciences.