Development Of Latent Fingerprints Research Articles

From nanomaterials to macromolecules: Innovative technologies for latent fingerprint development

AbstractThe majority of conventional techniques for latent fingerprint enhancement are based on chemical reactions or interactions between the developer and fingermark residue components, providing contrast between the surface and the fingerprint ridges. However, these methods might be limited by factors associated with particle size, toxicity of the reagent, selectivity, or sensitivity, that may be circumvented by the synthetic design of innovative materials based on nanoparticles or macromolecular materials, such as conducting polymers, applied as latent fingerprint developers on different surfaces and conditions. Since the structural, optical and electronic properties of the material can be tailored by its molecular scale, the size control of the developer plays an important role to improve the interaction with the latent fingermark residue and/or the surface, enhancing the color contrast and the quality of the developed image (or dactylogram). Hence, creating new reagents and strategies to apply nano‐ and macromolecular scale materials as latent fingermark developers constitutes an exciting rapidly expanding area, generating a wealth of new materials that lead to forensic methodologies with enhanced performance. Recent progress in the application of such materials for development of latent fingermarks present on different surfaces and subject to complex circumstances will be discussed. This will focus on the main barriers to making nanoparticles and conducting polymers viable—and occasionally preferred—materials routinely used by forensic experts, and the potential advantages over conventional methodologies in the acquisition and analysis of crime scene evidence.This article is categorized under: Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Trace Evidence Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Fingermarks and Other Marks Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and Methods

Nanomaterials for Forensic Applications: A Review

This review paper highlights the utilization of forensic science in latent fingerprint detection by the use of distinct nanomaterials and their advantages as for the nature of unique fingerprint pictures. As of now, conventional creating strategies, for example, powder dusting, cyanoacrylate fuming, Silver Nitrate Method and Ninhydrin Method .The benefits in addition to significant after effects of studies led on latent fingerprint detection with metal oxide doped rare earth nanomaterials, ZrO2:Dy3+ (3mol %) can be employed in forensic science towards latent fingerprint development and C- dot doped metal oxide nanomaterials are basically talked about.

Hydrophobic‐Binding‐Driven and Fluoresence‐Free Development of Aged Fingerprints Based on Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles

AbstractThe requirement of nonfluorescent developers for aged latent fingerprint development is still of great urgency in forensic science. To enhance the specific interaction between fingerprint residue and nano‐developers, a γ‐methacryloxy propyl trimethoxyl silane (MPTS) modified zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) was synthesized. The crystal structure, morphology, surface functional group, thermostability, UV/Vis spectra, photoluminescence and stability of sedimentation were characterized to prove the hydrophobicity, UV blocking nature and nonfluorescence of as‐prepared MPTS‐modified ZnO NPs. Additionally, after the specific surface area (SSA) of samples with different MPTS amount was analyzed by BET, a competitive adsorption mechanism between silane‐ZnO bonding and silane oligomer‐ZnO deposition was suggested. In the demonstration of latent fingerprint development, the powder dusting method was utilized on various surfaces both in positive and reversed imaging modes, exhibiting the high contrast, high sensitivity, high selectivity and wide applicability, even for aged fingerprints. Therefore, it provides a new strategy for fast, efficient and inexpensive development of older latent fingerprints in forensic analysis.

Overview of bimetallic nanomaterials used for visualization of latent fingerprints on various surfaces

This review focuses on the current trends in the use of doped metallic nanomaterials in forensic science for the development and detection of latent fingerprints (LFPs) on various surfaces which provide better fingerprint image quality. The advantages and important results of studies conducted on latent fingerprints detection with various doped metallic nanomaterials are critically discussed. We also glimpse on fluorescent nanoparticles that have succeeded in producing high-quality fingerprint images which lead to the extraction of all three levels of fingerprint features. A few metallic nanomaterials used for latent fingerprints detection did not produce high-quality fingerprint images failing extraction of all three levels of fingerprint features. To overcome this forensic problem more research is needed to improve the latent fingerprint detection abilities of doped metallic nanomaterials.

Barbituric acid appended fluorescent sensor for the detection of Cu2+/Hg2+ ions along with real-life utility in recognition of malathionin food samples and fingerprint imaging

A fluorescent sensor based on barbituric acid has been synthesized via single step reaction and utilized for the detection of metal ions (Cu2+/Hg2+) in aqueous medium. With the incorporation of Cu2+/Hg2+ ions to theCH3OH:H2O (1:1, v/v,pH = 7.0, HEPES buffer) solution of sensor 1, the fluorescence peak at 483 nm quenched remarkably. DFT Computational calculations pointed to the interaction of Cu2+/Hg2+ ions with sensor 1 through keto-enol tautomerism by the means of carbonyl of barbituric acid and –OH of aldehyde present in the sensor molecule. 1H NMR titration experiment was carried out to support the DFT studies. Moreover, the real-world utility of the sensor 1 has been successfully inspected for recognition of pesticide, malathion, in various food samples such as tomato, potato, spinach, apple and orange. Owing to the fluorescent nature of sensor 1, it was utilized for the development of latent fingerprints, which could further be exploited in the field of forensic science.

Recent Advances in Enhancement Techniques for Blood Fingerprints

The blood fingerprint enhancement is not so eye-catching as latent fingerprint development in forensic community, but it is indeed an important piece of evidence for personal identification, forensic analysis and even reconstruction of crime scenes. In over past ten years, novel reagents, advanced materials and emerging techniques have growingly participated in blood fingerprint enhancement, which not only leads to a higher level of developing sensitivity, selectivity and contrast, but also endows blood impressions with more forensic significance. This review summarizes recent advances in conventional chemical reagents targeting at heme, protein and amino acid as well as emerging enhancement techniques based on advanced materials, new equipment or methods. Some critical issues in forensic science are also discussed, including partial blood fingerprint enhancement, false positive of developing reagents, the compatibility of blood enhancement technique and DNA, fingerprint age determination, and so on. Finally, we have proposed several urgent problems to be solved and the prospects of some promising techniques were proposed in the field of blood fingerprint enhancement in future work.

Review on development of wet latent fingerprints by small particle reagent

Small particle reagent technique is a method which is used to develop fingermarks on moist and smooth surfaces. It consist the theory of adherence of fine particles which is suspended in a treating solution to the oily or fatty components (water insoluble) present in in latent fingermark residue and gives a grey colored deposit. It is also considered as belonging to the family of powder dusting. The effectiveness of this technique can be increased by using fluorescent dyes in it's treating solution which can also detect faint fingermarks on multi-colored surfaces. Small particle reagent involves the use of synthetic detergent which was here replaced by saponin extracted from the fruit of Sapindus mukorossi as natural detergent. The other ingredient used in the formulation is black charcoal powder. This composition develops sharp and clear fingermarks on non-adsorbent surfaces like glass, metal sheet, plastic, laminated wood, ceramic tiles and compact discs after these were immersed in water for variable periods of time. The ability of the present formulation to detect weak chance prints not only enhances its utility, but also its potentiality in forensic investigations. The raw materials used to prepare the SPR are easily available and cost-effective.

Emergent carbonized polymer dots as versatile featured nanomaterial for latent fingerprints, colorimetric sensor, and photocatalysis applications

A facile and multifeatured nanomaterial ‘carbon dots-incorporated polyethyleneimine polymer dots’ (CPPDs) was developed for the utilization in forensic and environmental applications. The one-step hydrothermal method was applied to synthesize CPPDs in which nile blue-derived carbon dots (C-dots) were encapsulated by polyethyleneimine polymeric chains to form a core-shell-nanostructured CPPDs. By taking advantage of the excellent optical spectral properties of CPPDs, three distinct applications including latent fingerprints (LFPs), colorimetric sensors, and metal-free photocatalysis were implemented. CPPDs were employed as a fluorescent probe in the development of LFPs on various substrates. The developed LFPs showed distinct fluorescent patterns with high resolution, providing three levels of identification of a fingerprint including its core, pores, island, and bifurcations. Second, CPPDs were established as a colorimetric sensing probe for the detection of copper ions (Cu2+). When Cu2+ ions were added, the colorless CPPDs solution was turned to a blue color with a detection limit of 6.87 nM. The high selectivity and sensitivity were achieved due to the existence of abundant amine functional groups that led to a stronger interaction with copper ions resulting in complex formation. In addition to LFPs and sensor applications, CPPDs showed their proficiency as a photocatalyst for the degradation of toxic chromium [Cr(VI)] solution. The photocatalytic degradation of Cr(VI) was performed under visible light illumination in which nearly 94% degradation was achieved in 30 min with a rate constant of 0.1339 min−1. An effective degradation process was governed by photogenerated electrons via a reduction reaction. It is anticipated that this work will lead to the development of facile, low-cost, and effective C-dots/polymer dots-based nanomaterials for synergic applications.

Latent fingermark development on fired and unfired brass ammunition under controlled and blind conditions

There has been growing interest in the Foster+Freeman RECOVER® Latent Fingerprint Technology system to develop fingermarks from fired ammunition. Over a six-month period, 1540 fingermarks were deposited on brass.223 ammunition, the majority of which were then fired after different time intervals. Samples were subjected to a cleaning protocol and/or processed with disulfur dinitride, cyanoacrylate/Brilliant Yellow 40, and/or vacuum metal deposition. Overall, 121 out of 1304 (9.3%) of natural fingermarks deposited were deemed identifiable post-firing and processing. This translated to 102 out of 652 (15.6%) of fired cartridges having identifiable fingermarks. A pseudo-operational study, which involved processing 1000 fired brass ammunition of various caliber using disulfur dinitride with and without a cleaning protocol, was conducted; only 18 (1.8%) comparable fingermarks were developed. This study demonstrates the need for more robust research involving this challenging substrate and novel technology, with which several issues were identified.

Using a large-scale cyanoacrylate fuming chamber for latent fingermark detection in vehicles

ABSTRACT Latent fingermarks contain precise information about the identities of individuals present at the crime scene. Cyanoacrylate (CA) fuming is a popular and effective technique for fingermark development on non-porous surfaces, but few approaches have been proposed for processing vehicles. We report the use of a large CA fuming chamber for latent fingermark development in vehicles related to serious crimes in Brasilia, Brazil. The chamber consists of a fuming compartment with a stainless-steel structure and is supplied with movable heating trays, air circulation fans, humidifying system, gas evacuation system, and an integrated control unit for process monitoring. Processing an entire regular vehicle requires 16 g of liquid CA and ~2 h. Identifiable fingermarks were recognized on the exterior and interior of the examined vehicles, including the door handles and the seat belt metallic tongue. Detected fingermarks were positively matched to individuals whose involvement in criminal activities was confirmed. The results support the efficiency of the CA fuming technique for fingermark development in the interior and exterior of vehicles and indicate certain parts of vehicles as being of potential interest. Considering the efficiency of the CA polymerization reaction for fingermark development in vehicles involved in crimes, large-scale chambers may offer important advantages.

Green emanating BiOCl:Tb3+ phosphors for strategic development of dermatoglyphics and anti-counterfeiting applications

• Green emitting BiOCl:xTb 3+ (x = 1–9 mol%) nanophosphors are prepared by propellant solution combustion route. • A new fluorescence based platform has been setup for in-situ visualization of latent fingerprints and lip prints by powder dusting method. • Well defined fluorescence fingerprint images on variety of surfaces by revealing type 1–3 ridge characteristics. • Developed latent fingerprints shows superior contrast, sensitivity, efficiency, selectivity and negligible background hindrance. • Fabricated unclonable invisible security ink and make it highly suitable for brush mode. In this work, we reported green emitting Tb 3+ ions (1–9 mol%) doped BiOCl nanophophors (NPs) synthesized by solution combustion route using Mimosa pudica ( M. p. ) plant extract as a bio-fuel. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns exhibit tetragonal structure of matlockite-type P4/nmm space group. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals that the prepared NPs were shown flake-like morphology. The energy bandgap of BiOCl:Tb 3+ (1–9 mol%) NPs were estimated and found to be in the range ∼3.50–3.53 eV. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra show characteristic emission peaks at ∼489, 545, 591 and 622 nm, which were corresponding to 5 D 4 → 7 F 6, 5 D 4 → 7 F 5 , 5 D 4 → 7 F 4 and 5 D 4 → 7 F 3 transitions of Tb 3+ ions, respectively. The maximum PL intensity was found to be for 5 mol% doped NPs and later diminishes. The diminished PL intensity was mainly ascribed to concentration quenching. The estimated CIE (Commission International de I’Eclairage) co-ordinates were close to the green emission standard values set by the National Television System Committee. The optimized NPs was used for development and visualization of latent fingerprints (LFPs) and lip prints. The developed fingerprints and lips prints revealed level I-III ridge details with high sensitivity, selectivity and without any background hindrance. The developed anti-counterfeiting labels were encrypted only under UV light illumination, but were completely invisible under normal light. These results clearly demonstrated that the optimized NPs can help to narrow the search gap in criminal investigations and forensic purposes.

A Molecular Design of Cyclic Nitronate Dye Based on the Halochromism of Fluoran Leuco Dyes as a New Latent Fingerprint Development Agent and Quantitative Structure-Property Relationships

새로운 잠재지문 현출제로서 fluoran leuco dye의 할로변색 반응에 근거하여 Me too approach 방법에 따라 cyclic nitronate (A 및 C) 분자를 설계하였다. 그리고 염료 분자들의 경계분자궤도(FMO) 에너지(ev.)를 밀도범함수론(DFT)으로 계산하고 2차원적인 정량적 구조와 성질과의 관계(2D-QSPRs)를 검토하였다. 그 결과로부터, 형광 양자수율(Φ)은 주로 전자끌게(Σσ>0; ρ > δ) 그리고 소수성(logP>0)은 입체적으로 큰 치환기(R1-R3) 효과(ΣEs<0; δ > ρ)에 의하여 증가하였다. 또한, 분자간 FMO 에너지 차이(ΔE) 의 비교로부터, C 분자에 대한 반응성은 친수성 아미노산(P)이 소수성 지방산(F)보다 큰 경향(P>F)이었다. 그러므로 C 분자는 잠재지문 현출반응의 조건에 따라 양자성 용매(logP<0)에서는 아미노산, 그리고 비양자성(logP>0) 또는 분말 조건(감열지)에서는 지방산을 대상으로 하는 두 가지 잠재지문 현출용도로 적합할 것이라 예상되었다

Latent fingermark detection using functionalised silicon oxide nanoparticles: Investigation into novel application procedures

Investigations into the application of carboxyl-functionalised silicon oxide nanoparticles doped with a ruthenium complex (RuBpy-doped CES-SiO2 NPs) for latent fingermark development on non-porous surfaces were reported in previous studies. These studies suggested that an optimised NP-based method demonstrated advantages in fingermark selectivity and sensitivity. To continue the series of research into using RuBpy-doped CES-SiO2 NPs for fingermark detection, the versatility and overall practicality of the optimised SiO2 NP-based reagent for latent fingermark detection and enhancement was evaluated. When the optimised NP-based method was used in a repeated fashion (application of multiple NP treatment cycles), it was found that the overall fingermark detection quality increased across the evaluated fingermarks without a high risk of overdevelopment. The possibility of incorporating the optimised NP-based reagent for potential operational use (e.g., at crime scenes) was successfully demonstrated via spray application on three test surfaces (aluminium foil, transparent polypropylene film and green polyethylene film). It was also shown that further enhancement of “spray-detected” fingermarks was achievable via subsequent treatment using the NP-based reagent in a colloidal dispersion bath. Additionally, the compatibility of the optimised NP-based method with two-step cyanoacrylate fuming for latent fingermark detection was evaluated. It was concluded that the two techniques are not compatible for application in a fingermark detection sequence. While encouraging results were demonstrated in this study, further optimisation and comparison will be required before the multiple-treatment and spray-treatment approaches can be considered for operational implementation.

Surface engineered La2Zr2O7:Eu3+ nanophosphors: Luminescent based platform for latent fingerprints visualization and anti-counterfeiting applications

The advancements in the forensic technologies is still a constructive and requires continuous development and evaluation strategies are to be implement. In this regard, the present work deals with fabrication of novel surface modified red-emitting Eu3+ ions doped La2Zr2O7 nanophosphors and used for latent fingerprint visualization and data security applications. The powdered x-ray diffraction studies of the prepared samples confirm the disordered cubic phase. The photoluminescence emission spectra consist of intense emission peaks located at ∼ 576, 593, 613, 656 and 711 nm, ascribed to the 5D0 → 7FJ (J = 0 - 4) transitions of Eu3+ ions, respectively. The surface modified nanophosphors by oleic acid showed 2-fold enhancement in the emission intensity as compared to bare nanophosphors, which is due to effective intramolecular energy transfers from coordinated ligands to the activated Eu3+ ions, called the antenna effect. The photometric properties of the surface grafted nanophosphors exhibit pure red color with high purity. The visualized latent fingerprints using surface modified nanophosphor could reveal level 1 − 3 ridge characteristics, which is most reliable evidence for personal identification. High resolution images of developed latent fingerprints further validated the effective chemical binding between the hydrophobic nanophosphor and chemical constituents present in the fingerprints, which enables most authenticated sweat pores. The oleic acid grafted nanophosphors can be formulated into writable inks so that secret writings can be accomplished using a simple brush technique and decoded under ultraviolet light illumination. The followed surface modification strategy drastically improves the properties of the nanophosphor, which is real time choice for latent fingerprint development and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

Preparation of Novel Magnetic Nanomaterials Based on "Facile Coprecipitation" for Developing Latent Fingerprints (LFP) in Crime Scenes.

Recently, the application of novel nanomaterials, especially magnetic nanomaterials in the development of latent fingerprints (LFP), has become the hot focus for forensic scientists and criminal investigators. As a type of recyclable, environment-friendly material, Fe3O4 nanoparticles achieve a wonderful effect in visualization of LFP. We first report the synthesis and encapsulation of nano-Fe3O4 through “facile coprecipitation”, (3-mercaptopropyl)triethoxysilane was covalently embedded into Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and the Fe3O4 core was encapsulated by the nanosilver to prepare novel magnetic nanomaterials (P-MNP@Ag) with the core–shell configuration. For comparison, the magnetic nanomaterials (S-MNP@Ag) were prepared by surface modification. Their composition, structure, and properties were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, IR, XPS, and VSM. Compared with commercially available gold powder, silver powder, bare magnetic powder, and prepared S-MNP@Ag, the development effect of LFP on different objects by using P-MNP@Ag had better performance, which presented the advantages of low background interference, high sensitivity, and clear secondary details in LFP. In the crime scenes of some influential cases, P-MNP@Ag had been applied to the visualization of LFP. The biometric identification of criminal suspects was confirmed through fingerprint comparison, which was highly affirmed by the public security department.

Comparative study of development of latent fingerprint by using cost effective waste materials

The powder method is a quick and easy approach to the development of latent fingerprints on porous and nonporous surface. There are many Waste materials of plant-based (orange peels, lemon peels) that are used as a powder was applied to the latent fingerprints of different surfaces using a camel hairbrush. This research study focuses on these two types of powders that are used for the enhancement of ridge characteristics to personal identification. Prints are clearly shown on the porous and non-porous surfaces or photography was done with suitable contrast. This powder is cost-effective and nontoxic in nature. An eco-friendly approach to develop fingerprints by using natural colour produces by various plant-based waste materials and a very reliable technique to use in the crime scene.

Latent fingerprint development by using cost effective incense sticks (Agarbatti) ASH

The powder method is the most convenient method for fingerprint development. Various powder methods for developing fingerprints have existed throughout the last decade and numerous powders have been experimented with over time. For this study, a bunch of Alaukik Agarbatti (local incense stick brand of Gujarat, India) were burnt properly and ash of burned incense sticks (Agarbatti) was collected on a sheet of paper. It was crushed by smooth hands and converted into fine powder. The formed powder was applied by the use of camel hairbrush to the latent fingerprints taken from the subjects. Photography was done in proper contrast. The application of burned incense stick powder is a novel material for this kind of study, it has been not done before. The impression of fingerprints obtained using burned incense stick powder was clear and sharply visible on both non-porous and porous surfaces. Ridge patterns in developed impressions were comprehensible and identifiable. Due to their contrast, a black or grey-coloured powder could be easily seen on a colourful background. Developed fingerprints were appropriate for tape-lifting and comparison after photography. This method is best due to its easy availability, less cost, and effectiveness. This method also suggests an approach towards environmental waste management.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles: Synthesis properties and their forensic applications in latent fingerprints development

A person's identity is determined by their fingerprints since they are distinct and one of a kind. Numerous techniques have been developed by experts to find latent fingerprints at crime scenes. With the acquiescence of nanotechnology in different fields of forensic science, the fingerprint development method has also advanced with the use of nanoparticles. In this study, one such nanoparticle has been developed and used as an application for fingerprint development. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a chemical substance that is made up of inorganic elements. A chemical technique was used to make stable zinc oxide nanoparticles. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were created at 60 °C using a modified method that included zinc chloride and sodium hydroxide. We concentrated on the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, which entails the production and application of materials with a size of less than 100 nm in one or more dimensions and a cone-shaped morphology. The synthesis of pure phase ZnO nanoparticles was confirmed by SEM and XRD. The developed ZnO nanoparticles were then used in latent fingerprint detection as an application of this study. Developed fingerprints gave excellent results on all kinds of surfaces be they porous, semi-porous, or non-porous. These powders can serve as a replacement for the traditional powders currently in use by forensic scientists.

Analysis of after effects of using hand sanitizers and hand cream on latent fingerprint's development with time gap

Many skin formulations, such as hand sanitizers and hand creams, are often utilised. When applied to the skin, the ingredients of such formulations can remain on the superficial level. This is extremely persuasive in fingerprint detection field since the components in hand sanitizer and hand cream can survive upon friction ridge skin and transported to the surface after deposition. The present study is aimed to determine whether or not the application of these, prior to fingerprint deposition, influences the subsequent chemical detection of fingerprints.

A Review on Nanomaterials for Developing Latent Fingerprint

Forensics has become a more interesting scientific topic to investigate with the advancement in science and technology in which nanomaterials have attracted a lot of attention in the field of nano-forensic research. Fingerprints are important evidence in any crime scene, and nano-based techniques have a lot of potential in fingerprint investigations in the future. Fingerprints have often been and still are considered one of the most valuable types of physical evidence for personal identification. The prints left behind at a crime scene are usually latent (invisible) fingerprints and thus, the distinct ridge details of fingerprints can be obtained by applying different nanoparticles such as silver, zinc oxide, silicon dioxide, aluminium oxide, gold, carbon and silica on a variety of object surfaces, with gold being the most commonly used. The use of nanoparticles can improve the quality and stability of latent fingerprints. As a result, this review study focuses on the use of various nanomaterials in the development and detection of latent fingerprints.