Issue 13, 2013

p-Dimethylaminobenzaldehyde: preliminary investigations into a novel reagent for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces

Abstract

A new method for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces using p-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde (DMAB) is described. The method is based upon the reaction of DMAB with the amino acids present in the latent fingermark to give a yellow-brown impression that is photoluminescent when illuminated with a high intensity filtered light source at 490 nm and viewed through orange goggles (OG550). A wet contact method proved effective on non-fragile porous substrates such as white photocopy paper and various other substrates, while a dry contact (solventless) method afforded development on thermal paper. Luminescence spectrophotometry of developed L-alanine, glycine and L-serine spots on paper was used to confirm that DMAB was reacting with amino acids in the latent fingermark.

Graphical abstract: p-Dimethylaminobenzaldehyde: preliminary investigations into a novel reagent for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
21 May 2013
Accepted
22 May 2013
First published
22 May 2013

Anal. Methods, 2013,5, 3207-3215

p-Dimethylaminobenzaldehyde: preliminary investigations into a novel reagent for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces

P. Fritz, W. van Bronswijk and S. W. Lewis, Anal. Methods, 2013, 5, 3207 DOI: 10.1039/C3AY40856F

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