Journal Published Online: 01 May 1987
Volume 32, Issue 3

Photoluminescent Enhancement of Ninhydrin Developed Fingerprints by Metal Complexation: Structural Studies of Complexes Formed Between Ruhemann's Purple and Group IIb Metal Salts

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Ruhemann's purple (RP), formed in the ninhydrin development of latent fingerprints, readily coordinates to a number of metal cations. The luminescent behavior of the Group IIb complexes has been used in the enhancement of fingerprints developed with ninhydrin. Spectroscopic evidence is presented which indicates that all three complexes have similar structures. The structure of the cadmium complex has been determined by X-ray diffraction and found to contain a 1:1 ratio of metal to chelating agent (RP). The properties of this complex suggest that it is the active agent in the cadmium(II) promoted photoluminescence of ninhydrin developed fingerprints. Coordinated water in the complex explains the need for moisture in the enhancement procedure.

Author Information

Lennard, CJ
Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
Margot, PA
Institut de Police scientifique et de criminologie, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
Sterns, M
Chemistry Department, The Faculties, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
Warrener, RN
Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
Pages: 9
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS12364J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12364J