ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 11

Room Light and Laser Development of Latent Fingerprints with Enzymes
Roland Menzel, E
Director, Center for Forensic Studies Texas Tech University, TX

Burt, JA
Laboratory assistants, Texas Tech University, TX

Everse, J
Professor, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, TX

Everse, KE
Research associate, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, TX

Sinor, TW
Laboratory assistants, Texas Tech University, TX

(Received 10 May 1983; accepted 31 May 1983)

Abstract

A very pronounced enhancement in detectability of reasonably fresh latent finger-prints is obtained when the ninhydrin method is combined with enzyme treatment. Specifically, trypsin and pronase were found to be effective, particularly the former. When ridge detail in room light remains inadequate even upon enzyme treatment, laser examination following zinc chloride treatment can produce strong additional enhancement to render such prints identificable. Our results with older prints have been marginal to date. Reasons for this and directions for future study are discussed.

Keywords:
criminalistics, fingerprints, ninhydrin, enzymes, trypsin, pronase, zinc chloride, lasers

Paper ID: JFS11640J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11640J
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