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Colorful Latent Processing: The Past 20 Years Have Brought Many Changes

NCJ Number
196473
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 29 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2002 Pages: 36-40
Author(s)
Paul Laska
Date Published
August 2002
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the use of fingerprinting processes such as powders, nitrates, glues, and lasers in conjunction with forensic light sources.
Abstract
The key to successful fingerprinting processes with any chemical or powder is their use with forensic light sources of different wave lengths, power outputs, and types of light source. Sirchie Finger Print Labs of Youngsville, North Carolina, is a primary source of crime scene investigation equipment in the United States. It offers three lines of fluorescent powders which offer the investigator the option of flooding the scene with light or operating with minimal light sources and still successfully identifying latent fingerprints. Ardrox, basic Yellow 40, and Basic Red 28 dyes, produced by Lightning Powder Company, in Jacksonville, Florida, are also described. Two new adhesive tapes used for capturing detailed fingerprints are described, including Sticky Side Powder which is designed to be mixed with water and a wetting agent, and TapeGlo, which is designed to be dipped into a fluorescent dye and then rinsed with water. It is noted that these new inventions have made it possible for investigators to obtain prints from a wider and wider range of materials and sources. Safety considerations for the use of these chemicals are discussed, with the recommendation to investigators using these materials that they use the Material Safety Data Sheets, maintain their knowledge of OSHA standards and regulations devised for their protection, and the following Safety Guidelines published by the International Association for Identification.