A novel 1,2-indanedione-based bi-functional reagent was designed for the development of latent
fingerprints on paper substrates. The reagent was synthesized using a concise five-step protocol and
applied using a modified multi-metal deposition (MMD) process. Positive images of latent fingerprints
were developed showing preferential binding to the fingerprint ridges. Fingerprints that contain both
amino acids as well as oily substances were successfully detected supporting the reagent’s efficiency.