Phase Transfer Catalysis in the Aid of Fingerprint Development

This paper relates to the application of a novel spray formulation for developing latent fingermarks on a wide range of crime scene evidences. The formulation is based on a xanthene dye, rose Bengal, and a phase transfer catalyst, t-tetrabutylammonium iodide. It takes just 2-3 minutes to develop optimum on a broad spectrum of fingerprint evidences of non-porous, semi porous and porous substrates. It also detects fingerprints on items that are white and multi-colored, and smooth and rough. In addition, it develops fingerprints on a variety of adhesive tapes, including duct tape, which is used by suicide bombers to wrap explosives on their bodies. It also detects impressions on such items that have been exposed to water and high temperatures. The spray solution is prepared in water. The ingredients of the formulation are non-toxic, cheap and easily procurable.