Developing Latent Fingerprints from Surface of Eggshell using Physical Methods

Authors

  • Nithin S Anna Medical College, Sans Souci Road, Montagne Blanche, Mauritius
  • Swapna Gowri C S Acharya Institute of Graduate Studies, Soladevanahalli, Bangalore, Karnataka
  • Sona Mariya Mary Matha college of arts and science, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamilnadu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37506/3brh4j59

Keywords:

Latent fingerprint, Egg shell, Black powder, fluorescent powder, Plastic bubble wrap

Abstract

The development of latent fingerprints on unconventional surfaces, such as eggshells, presents unique challenges due to
their fragile and porous nature. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of two physical methods—black powder
and fluorescent powder—in developing latent fingerprints on eggshell surfaces under both normal conditions and when
covered with plastic bubble wrap. A total of ten samples were tested for each condition. Results indicate that black powder
consistently produced better fingerprint contrast, with five samples showing excellent visibility under normal conditions
and moderate success even under plastic wrap. In contrast, fluorescent powder demonstrated poor performance overall,
with no samples displaying excellent contrast and a significant number yielding weak or no visibility, especially when
surface conditions were altered by plastic covering. The findings suggest that black powder is more suitable for fingerprint
development on eggshell surfaces, while fluorescent powder is limited in its effectiveness, particularly under textured
or wrapped conditions. This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate physical methods for latent print
development on delicate biological surfaces.

Author Biographies

  • Nithin S, Anna Medical College, Sans Souci Road, Montagne Blanche, Mauritius

    Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Anna Medical College, Sans Souci Road,
    Montagne Blanche, Mauritius

  • Swapna Gowri C S, Acharya Institute of Graduate Studies, Soladevanahalli, Bangalore, Karnataka

    Assistant Professor, Department of Criminology and Forensic Science, Acharya Institute of Graduate Studies, Soladevanahalli, Bangalore, Karnataka

  • Sona Mariya, Mary Matha college of arts and science, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamilnadu

    Student, Department of criminology and Forensic Science, Mary Matha college of arts and science, Periyakulam, Theni, Tamilnadu

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Published

2025-09-25

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Original Article

How to Cite

Developing Latent Fingerprints from Surface of Eggshell using Physical Methods. (2025). Medico Legal Update, 25(4), 43-49. https://doi.org/10.37506/3brh4j59