Fingerprints' Third Dimension: The Depth and Shape of Fingerprint Penetration Into Paper--Cross Section Examination by Fluorescence Microscopy

• NCJ Number: 207176
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 49 Issue: 5 Dated: September 2004 Pages: 981-985
• Author(s): Joseph Almog Ph.D.; Myriam Azoury M.Sc.; Yifat Elmaliah B.Sc.; Larisa Berenstein M.Sc.; Arie Zaban Ph.D.
• Date Published: September 2004
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined whether there is any linkage between the quality of developed fingerprints on paper and the depth of penetration of the prints into the paper.

Abstract

A total of 15 different paper samples were used as substrate for fingerprint deposits. Thirteen of the samples were uncoated paper and 2 were coated. The fingers that applied the prints were stained with a fluorescent dye, so that the latent prints could be observed with a fluorescence microscope to determine how residue from fingerprint ridges was embedded in the paper. The application of the fluorogenic fingerprint reagents of DFO and 1,2-indanedione to the latent prints permitted observation of the depth of the developed prints in the paper and comparison of the depth of penetration in various papers. The fluorescence intensity of the ridges corresponded to the amount of fingerprint deposits at each point. The shape and depth of fingerprint penetration varied with the different types of paper. There was an inverse relationship between the paper's smoothness and the depth of print penetration. Print quality apparently correlated with the print's penetration depth, with the optimal penetration depth being between 40 and 60 microns. 3 tables, 6 figures, and 11 references