Thesis-2013-Shah.pdf (10.85 MB)
Novel fingerprint development techniques
thesis
posted on 2013-06-18, 11:40 authored by Bansi C. ShahThere are numerous pre-existing fingerprint development techniques, however, often
prints are difficult to develop, depending on their age or the surface upon which they
have been deposited. Forensic scientists are relentlessly looking for new and better
methods to enhance fingerprints. More recent technologies have higher sensitivity to
very low levels of constituents present in residues and so are able to unearth
significant details from a person’s fingerprints at molecular level e.g. DNA, drug
metabolites. Therefore, research continues in an attempt to generate novel, nondestructive
processes that can enhance latent fingerprints.
Exposing fingerprints to the p-block compounds selenium dioxide (SeO2),
phosphorus sulfides (P4Sx) and phosphonitrilic chloride trimer (NPCl2)3, in the vapour
phase resulted in latent prints being visualized on a range of media. Selenium dioxide
revealed prints on metal surfaces (e.g. brass) which were enhanced further upon
formation of a dark brown coating of copper-selenide formed on the surface when
exposed to moisture, giving a better contrast. P4S3 vapour revealed a higher
percentage of prints and samples had greater stability in air while although (NPCl2)3
was able to develop fingerprints, the low quality was undesirable. Initially it was
thought that (NPCl2)3 has the potential for further derivatisation but was proven very
difficult to interact with compounds especially those with the potential to induce
fluorescence. However, all three compounds are commercially available and
sublimation techniques are straightforward. [Continues.]
Funding
Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). DTA.
History
School
- Science
Department
- Chemistry
Publisher
© Bansi ShahPublication date
2013Notes
A Doctoral Thesis. Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of Doctor of Philosophy of Loughborough University.Language
- en