Abstract:
The most common reagents for fingerprint development
on porous surfaces are ninhydrin and DFO. However, a large number
of different reagent formulations are in use in fingerprint laboratories
around the world. 1,2-Indanedione is also emerging as a potential
reagent for the development of fingermarks on porous surfaces in
routine casework. Tnis situation prompted this study in which a survey
was undertaken The aims of the survey were two-fold:
I. Determine the type and frequency of use of fingerprint
reagents applied to porous surfaces.
2. Determine the fingerprint community's awareness and
experience with 1,2-indanedione.
The fingerprint survey was sent to state police laboratories in
Australia and New Zealand and to members of major fingerprint
research groups and laboratories in the USA, UK, and Europe. Thirtyfour
responses were received from nine countries. These responses
indicated a high degree of variability, in both the testing performed
and the reagent formulations employed.
Although only thirty-four agencies responded, some valuable
insight into the lack of awareness and implementation of 1,2-indanedione
is presented.
