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Detection of Visible and Latent Fingerprints Using Micro‐X‐ray Fluorescence Elemental Imaging *
Author(s) -
Worley Christopher G.,
Wiltshire Sara S.,
Miller Thomasin C.,
Havrilla George J.,
Majidi Vahid
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2005.00006.x
Subject(s) - fluorescence , chemistry , computer science , artificial intelligence , optics , physics
ABSTRACT: Using micro‐X‐ray fluorescence (MXRF), a novel means of detecting fingerprints was examined in which the prints were imaged based on their elemental composition. MXRF is a nondestructive technique. Although this method requires a priori knowledge about the approximate location of a print, it offers a new and complementary means for detecting fingerprints that are also left pristine for further analysis (including potential DNA extraction) or archiving purposes. Sebaceous fingerprints and those made after perspiring were detected based on elements such as potassium and chlorine present in the print residue. Unique prints were also detected including those containing lotion, saliva, banana, or sunscreen. This proof‐of‐concept study demonstrates the potential for visualizing fingerprints by MXRF on surfaces that can be problematic using current methods.