Comparative Study of Metal Oxide Powders for Revealing Latent Fingerprints on Various Nonporous Surfaces

Abstract

Latent fingerprints are left behind on various surfaces when a person touches an object, ofteninvisible to the naked eye. The process of detecting these fingerprints and enhancing their visibility is vital for identifying perpetrators in criminal cases. Contrast, resolution, and the ability to see tiny details are all impacted by the different ways in which different agents interact with fingerprint residues and substrates. Surface type, residue composition, environmental variables, and safety issues all influence the best option. Empirical testing is often necessary to determine the most effective reagent for a particular forensic scenario. Several metal oxide powders, including CaO, ZrSiO₄, B₂O₃, TiO₂, and CdO, were used in this study to evaluate fingerprint detection on surfaces such phone screens, transparent glass, and black marble. Because of their high adhesion, clarity, and compatibility with various surfaces, ZrSiO₄ worked best on glass, B₂O₃ on black marble, and CdO on phone displays.