Latent Fingerprint Visualisation using a Scanning Kelvinprobe

This paper describes a new application of the scanning Kelvinprobe (SKP) technique as a means of visualising latent fingerprints on metallic surfaces, particularly those associated with firearms cartridge cases and fragments of explosive devices after firing or detonation. This research has received considerable recent media interest and the main aim of this paper is to provide the audience with the scientific background to the technique. The current state of the art in fingerprint imaging by SKP, supported by UK government funding via the EPSRC 'technologies for crime prevention and detection' programme will also be described. This includes the design and construction of a 3-dimensional SKP apparatus for scanning non-planar objects samples such as cartridge cases, and demonstrations of the ability of the technique to visualise both latent eccrine fingerprint patterns and fingerprints obscured beneath optically opaque smoke films.