Development of fingerprints on thermal papers—a review

Abstract

Background: In recent times, the use of thermal papers has increased exponentially and the fingerprints on thermal papers are frequently encountered. Although fingerprint development on paper has been standardized, that on thermal paper is complicated. Thermal papers turn black on the application of heat which poses a problem in the visualization of fingerprints which makes it difficult to visualize. Main body: One solution to this problem is to use heat or steam for the development of white fingerprints on darker backgrounds. Second solution might be to dissolve the chemicals present on the surface of the thermal papers using acetone. Many studies to develop fingerprints on thermal papers using iodine fuming, ninhydrin, 1,8diazofluorene-9-one, and p-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde have been performed. In the present review, an attempt has been made to summarize the problem posed to fingerprint development on thermal papers and the probable solutions attempted by different authors. Conclusion: Although the development of fingerprints is difficult on thermal papers, it can be achieved either by subjecting the thermal paper to controlled heat or by removing the temperature-sensitive layer before treating it with other fingerprint development methods.

A Review on Charred Document Decipherment, Fingerprint Enhancement and Visualization From Burned Surfaces and Use of Video Spectral Comparator for Different Studies

“…Semi-destructive method [39] Brushing, a 2 percent NaOH solution, and tape lifting were all used to remove the soot, some prints were visible, while another fuming is required.…”

Solvent-free strategies for developing latent fingermarks on paper: a review

“…Readers seeking a more expansive assessment of thermal paper development techniques are directed to this complementary review. 16…”

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Recent Trends in Fluorescent Organic Materials for Latent Fingerprint Imaging

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