NCJ Number
184324
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 45 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2000 Pages: 785-794
Date Published
July 2000
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This study examined the use of 2,2’-azino-di-ethylbenzthiazolinesulfonate(6) diammonium salt (ABTS) for the enhancement of fingerprints in blood.
Abstract
The study examined bloody fingerprints deposited onto paper, glass slides, and ceramic tile. The blood came from one of the authors. UV/Vis spectroscopy determined the optimal pH and H2O2 concentrations. Results revealed that ABTS is an effective and safe noncarcinogenic alternative to the more expensive 3,3-di-aminobenzidine (DAB) currently used for the development of bloody fingerprints, especially on porous surfaces. The bright green color of the oxidized ABTS is an advantage on certain colored surfaces on which the dark brown color of DAB does not stand out well from the background. In addition, development with ABTS does not interfere with subsequent DAB use. Thus, using ABTS offers nothing to lose. ABTS can be used after ninhydrin treatment of any latent fingerprints, but ninhydrin treatment cannot be used after ABTS treatment. The effect of ABTS or DAB treatment on subsequent DNA analysis is equally detrimental, although confirmation of this conclusion will probably require further research. Tables, figures, and 16 references (Author abstract modified)