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Use of Ninhydrin in the Recovery of Latent Prints on Evidence Involving Adhesive Surfaces Attached to Porous Surfaces

NCJ Number
186170
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 50 Issue: 6 Dated: November/December 2000 Pages: 581-594
Author(s)
Alice V. Maceo; Kasey Wertheim
Editor(s)
David L. Grieve
Date Published
December 2000
Length
14 pages
Annotation
The key to latent print development on evidence with adhesive surfaces attached to porous surfaces is choosing the right processing technique.
Abstract
Recovering latent prints from evidence involving adhesive surfaces attached to porous surfaces is enhanced through an understanding of the effects of different processing techniques on the evidence. A number of factors were tested: adhesive surface, porous surface, ninhydrin solvent, separation method and sequencing technique. The proper combination of ninhydrin solvent, separation method and sequencing technique can maximize the recovery of latent prints on adhesive surfaces. Different types of adhesive surfaces require different processing techniques to maximize latent print recovery. The results of this research are presented and techniques are suggested for maximizing the recovery of latent prints on adhesive surfaces attached to porous surfaces. 12 figures, 1 table