Journal Published Online: 01 September 2004
Volume 49, Issue 5

Fingerprint's Third Dimension: The Depth and Shape of Fingerprints Penetration into Paper—Cross Section Examination by Fluorescence Microscopy

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

In an attempt to maximize the yield of latent fingerprints from paper items, we conducted a study of a fundamental process between fingerprint deposits and paper. Fingerprint ridges have been observed in the cross section of paper by fluorescence microscopy. It was possible to see, for the first time, how residue from fingerprint ridges is embedded in paper. Undeveloped, latent fingerprints, as well as latent prints developed by the two fluorogenic reagents, DFO and 1,2-indanedione, have been examined. The shape and depth of penetration of fingerprints vary with different types of paper. An inverse relationship between the smoothness of the paper and the penetration depth was observed: higher smoothness values result in lower depths of penetration. High quality prints appear to correlate with an optimal penetration depth—between 40 and 60 microns.

Author Information

Almog, J
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
Azoury, M
Israel Police, Jerusalem, Israel
Elmaliah, Y
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
Berenstein, L
Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
Zaban, A
Bar Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
Pages: 5
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JFS2004009
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2004009