How to Detect Fingerprints With Super Glue Fuming
In forensic science, cyanoacrylate fuming is used to render latent fingerprints visible on surfaces. Latent fingerprints are fingerprints left on a surface which are not visible to the naked eye. Cyanocrylate fumes react chemically with the substances in human skin oils, changing the color of previously invisible fingerprints so that they can be photographed. The most common source of cyanoacrylate is cyanoacrylate glue, such as Superglue. This method of fingerprint detection is simple, relatively quick and uses readily available supplies.
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Things You'll Need
- Fingerprint surface
- Airtight tank
- Heater
- Open container
- Cyanoacrylate glue
Instructions
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Identify the surface you wish to test for fingerprints. Carefully place the object inside an airtight tank, taking care not to touch printable surfaces.
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Place an electric heater in the tank, making sure that you have a method of activating it once the tank is sealed.
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Place a few drops of cyanoacrylate glue in a small open container and place the container on the heater.
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Seal the tank and activate the heater. Wait until the cyanoacrylate glue has reached its boiling point. This can vary depending on the exact formula of the glue, but is usually between 49 and 65 degrees Celsius.
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Watch the surface for signs of fingerprints developing as the gaseous cyanoacrylate fills the tank and reacts with the oils. This can take several hours, depending on the size of the object and the volume of the tank.
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Tips & Warnings
If the surface you are checking for prints is white, dusting the developed prints with colored powder will make them easier to see.
Monitor the process carefully. If the fingerprints are exposed to fumes for too long, they overdevelop, making them unusable.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
