Development of Fingerprints Using Electrolysis: A Technical Report Into the Development of Fingerprints on Fired Brass Cartridge Cases

• NCJ Number: 238368
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 62 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2012 Pages: 129-142
• Author(s): Fatima Nizam; Wade Knaap; John D. Stewart
• Date Published: April 2012
• Length: 14 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Toronto Police Service Forensic Identification Services Unit
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper examines the influence of electrolysis on galvanic metal corrosion.

Abstract

This paper examines whether electrolysis could be a useful method in the development of latent fingerprints on fired brass cartridge cases. The influence of electrolysis on galvanic metal corrosion was explored. The authors found that the clarity of the fingerprints was time-sensitive and improved as acid concentration increased with lower duration of electrolysis. (Published Abstract)