Visualization of latent fingerprints using Prussian blue thin films

Herein, a facile and effective approach was proposed for visualizing latent fingerprints (LFPs) on two kinds of conductive surfaces by spatially selective electrochemical deposition of Prussian blue (PB) thin films. This strategy exploited the fingerprint residue as an insulating mask and the PB thin films were only generated on the bare surface including the valleys between the papillary ridges, which produced a negative image of LFPs with high resolution up to the third level information. The surface morphology of PB films was characterized by the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). This enhancement technique showed promising performance in selected materials of practical interest.

Graphical abstractA facile and effective strategy for visualizing latent fingerprints on conductive surfaces has been demonstrated by spatially selective electrochemical deposition of Prussian blue thin films. It presented the great advantage of being a relatively simple, rapid, high resolution and non-hazardous technique for the enhancement of latent fingerprints.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide