NCJ Number
164954
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 41 Issue: 6 Dated: (November 1996) Pages: 1038-1041
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Two- and three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopic data were recorded from sebum-rich latent fingermarks of 10 individuals, five male and five female, on quartz and white card.
Abstract
Fluorescent spectra of fingermark residue samples were collected by direct placement of a fingermark onto a quartz slide and by gently wiping the fingertip onto the side of a slide before transferring to a second slide. The latter method provided a more concentrated skin-surface residue sample for analysis. Fingertips were washed before deposition and then wiped against the forehead to produce sebum-rich samples. Quartz was chosen as a substrate because it had no fluorescence in the spectral region of interest. Fingermark residue fluoresced between 310 and 380 nm and had an excitation range of 260 to 300 nm. Three-dimensional fluorescent spectroscopy allowed the observation of several fluorescent components at once, giving the operator all the data for imaging in a single spectrum. The value of fluorescence spectroscopy in forensic work, particularly to image the inherent ultraviolet photoluminescence of latent fingermarks, is discussed. 9 references, 1 table, and 5 figures