NTRODUCtION This communicatiorl reports a novel
ljhe application of finely divided materials and formulation for fin~erprint dusti.ng which contai~s
the subsequent r:emoval of the excess powder by a fluorescent orgal1Jc dye (p9loxlne B) as shown 111
brushing and blpwing or tapping has been tne Fig. 1. For cost-effectiveness, the conventional and
ul1iversal method of intensif;ying fingerprints on expensive res~flous adhesives have been replaced
non-absorbent surfa~es since the early days('2. The by cheap and msoluble salts.
technique relies on, mechanical adherepce of
fingerpr
t powder to the rl1oisturel and oily
components of skin-ridge deposits. Convfntional
fingerprint ~owders consist of,a resinous polymer
for adhesion and a colorant fot contrast. Over the
years, pt became evident that powders containing
toxic inorganic salts posed a health hazard3. As a
result, the organic-ba~ed fingerprint powders have
become more popular. .
I Besides its codventional utility in crime
detection, fingerprint technology finds apdlications
in areas relate~ to defence,s. The .science of
fingerprinting he'ps in establishing the identity of
war victims whose podies are badly mutilated. It
also helps in the identification of prisoners of war
who escape uJldcr disguise.