A Calibration Test for Latent Fingerprint Development on Thermal Paper

作者：Spencer Caroline A; Bond John W^*

来源：Journal of Forensic Sciences, 2014, 59(6): 1635-1637.

DOI：10.1111/1556-4029.12575

• forensic science
• latent fingerprint
• print visualization
• thermal paper
• butylene glycol
• calibration

A calibration test is described for monitoring the operation of equipment used to develop latent fingerprints on thermal paper by the application of either controlled or uncontrolled heat. A working solution of a water/glycerol emulsion and butylene glycol is applied to thermal paper by means of either a vinyl stamp and pad, or a marker pen. Varying the amount of butylene glycol enables the thermal paper to change color at different temperatures between approximately 40 and 60 degrees C, which is below the normal color change temperature of the paper. The described test may be used to verify the correct operation, at different temperatures, of a controlled heat source during and after fingerprint development (such as the Hot Print System) or to monitor the paper temperature with an uncontrolled heat source (such as a warm air blower), thereby avoiding unintentional coloring of the entire paper surface.

• 出版日期2014-11