Powder method for detecting latent fingerprints: a review

The powder technique for detecting latent fingerprints involves the applica tion of a finely divided formulation to the fingermark impression. generall y with a glass-fibre or a camel hair brush. The powder gets mechanically ad hered to the sweat residue defining the ridge pattern. The furrows which ar e devoid of the fingerprint residue, do not adhere the powder onto them. Th e final outcome is that the powder formulation sticks to the ridges, but is easily blown off the furrows. Since the powder is normally coloured, the r idge pattern becomes visible and the latent print is said to have developed . (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.