NCJ Number
195243
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 47 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2002 Pages: 254-259
Date Published
2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This research evaluated as fingerprint development reagents six ninhydrin analogues that contain oxygen, sulfur, and selenium substituents at the C-5 position, 5-(4-nitrophenyl)ninhydrin, and benzo[f]furoninhydrin.
Abstract
Fingerprints were obtained from donors in the authors' laboratory. Latex gloves were worn for 15 to 30 minutes prior to laying down the print to facilitate palmar secretions. The gloves were then removed and the fingers rubbed together to obtain an even distribution of sweat and the fingerprints laid down on white A4/80 g Australian Copier Paper. Sequential prints that ranged from strong to weak were deposited by making a series of prints by using the same finger. When required, individual fingerprints were cut in half so that comparative tests could be performed on the same print to eliminate interdonor or interprint variation. Fingerprints treated with the analogues and stored under ambient conditions (20-25 percent relative humidity and 22 to 25 degrees C) for up to 10 days failed to show any significant development. The MeSe and NO2Ph analogues did show some response, producing a weak pale purple print. Dry heat also failed to initiate fingerprint development. By comparison, ninhydrin-treated fingerprints developed strongly within 60 minutes. under ambient conditions and continued to improve over 48 hours. The benzo[f]furo, nitrophenyl, and methyl selenide analogues showed the best potential as fingerprint reagents, with the benzo[f]furo comparing favorably with DFO. 5 figures, 3 tables, and 19 references