In the forensic field, the latent fingerprint development techniques traditionally used have been fundamental in the process of identifying the perpetrator of a crime. In order to analyze fingerprints at crime scene, conventional techniques include powder dusting using black, aluminum, magnetic and fluorescence powders. However, the development of fingermarks techniques remains under research because methods that are more precise are required. Nanotechnology offers an innovative alternative by using nanomaterials for fingermarks detection. Our work consists of the evaluation of the effectiveness of nanomaterials for the enhancement of the development and definition of fingermarks impression. We report the application of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nano powders for fingerprint detection. Different age and gender volunteers provides the fingerprints for our research. Evaluation of fresh and aged fingermarks on glass, smooth plastic, aluminum and ceramic tile surfaces was performed. Results demonstrate that nanomaterials exhibit a higher definition of specific details in fingerprints in each surface. MSN provides higher definition in glass, aluminum and plastic surfaces. Zinc oxide nano powder shows an enhancement in the fingerprint detection in black ceramic tile surfaces. The nanomaterials studied in this research offer a great sensitive forensic alternative to enhance the detection of fingermarks.

Nanomaterials for fingerprint analysis: Comparative study with traditional techniques

2019 Spring National Meeting

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