From Locard to Luminescence: Fingerprint powders

We've spoken about Locard's principle before, which essentially teaches us that "every contact leaves a trace." It's a principle deeply ingrained in the world of forensic science, where dedicated professionals tirelessly seek to uncover the secrets hidden at crime scenes. One of the most fascinating aspects of this pursuit is latent fingerprints - the concealed clues left behind by the perpetrators.

Latent prints are stealthy, invisible to the naked eye, and a challenge for forensic technicians. They materialise when the friction ridges on our fingers leave their mark on surfaces. To unveil these hidden clues, we rely on fingerprint powders.

Fingerprint powders are a forensic technician's best friend, comprised of special materials that cling to the moisture and oil components of a latent print. They act as enhancers, transforming latent prints into vivid visual evidence. The latest innovations, InvisiBlu and AquaTrace, are setting new standards in the field.

Fluorescent game-changers

InvisiBlu and AquaTrace are fluorescent powders, the real game-changers. Under ultraviolet light, they work their magic, causing latent prints to fluoresce. The result? An astounding display of ridge details, easily captured in photographs or lifted for analysis.

What sets these powders apart is their unique colour palette. InvisiBlu boasts a captivating blue fluorescence, while AquaTrace emits a distinctive green glow. But these powders don't just shine in the dark; they are visible under ambient light conditions, eliminating the need for a pitch-black environment.

Traditional powders require a colour choice based on the surface's hue, but not InvisiBlu and AquaTrace. They transcend colour limitations, making them suitable for almost every surface.

In the world of forensic science, every detail matters. InvisiBlu and AquaTrace fingerprint powders empower investigators to see what once remained hidden, transcending the boundaries of traditional methods.

The invisible becomes visible, and the truth reveals itself under the mesmerising glow of these powders.

We'll be sharing more about fingerprint powders at our stand at the IAFS - International Association of Forensic Sciences conference in Sydney this month - come say hi!