1.Recycling Potential of Natural Waste Products in the Development of Fingerprint Powders for Forensic Application
Nur Fatin Nabihah Said ; Siti Nabilah Anuar ; Yusmazura Zakaria ; Revathi Rajan ; Nurasmat Mohd Shukri ; Nik Fakhuruddin Nik Hassan
Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences 2021;17(No.4):196-204
Introduction: The most common method to emerge latent fingermarks on non-porous surfaces is powdering by
applying commercial fingerprint powders. However, the chemical composition of the powder is often toxic and
poses health hazards to humans. This study was endeavoured to explore the effectiveness and potential use of natural resources for the enhancement of latent fingermarks. Methods: Eggshells and clamshells were prepared in fine
powder form, and latent fingermarks were developed using each powder. Five non-porous substrates were selected
for fingermarks deposition; glass, aluminium can, plastic book cover, painted wood, and compact disc. Results: Both
natural powders have successfully developed high-quality finger marks with high clarity of ridge characteristics in
comparison to commercial fingerprint powder (positive control) and untreated fingermark (negative control) on most
of the tested surfaces tested. The sebaceous fingermarks have shown the best quality fingermarks when developed
with both powders. In the ageing study, it was found that most non-porous substrates bearing latent fingermarks
exposed to the destructive conditions can be successfully visualised in the early period of exposure. Conclusion:
Eggshell and clamshell powders are as effective as commercial white powder but preferrable to be applied because
of the low cost, abundant and non-hazardous.