A Multipurpose Composition Based on Brilliant Blue R for Developing Latent Fingerprints on Crime Scene Evidence

The simplest and most commonly used method for detecting latent fingerprints is powder dusting. This technique relies on the mechanical adherence of the detecting composition to the moisture content of sweat. Under the present work, a novel, fluorescent, nontoxic and cost-effective powder composition for detection of latent fingerprints has been developed. The fluorescent component of the formulation is the brilliant blue R stain. The powder, when suspended in water, along with a few drops of a commercial liquid detergent acts as a small particle reagent (SPR) and develops latent fingerprints on non-porous wet surfaces. The composition has multipurpose utility since in powdered state; it develops sharp and detailed fingerprints on an array of articles removed from conventional crime scenes, while in SPR state lifts clear fingerprints on moist non-porous items.