Development of latent fingerprints using colored inclusion complex powders of Cationic β-cyclodextrin with organic dyes from wastewater effluents

Colored powders were widely applied to develop latent fingerprints (LFPs) on various substrates in forensic science; however, few researches involved the recycle of the organic dyes removed from wastewater effluents as developing agent. Therefore, colored inclusion complex powders (CICPs) of cationic β-cyclodextrin with Acid Red G as simulated dye from wastewater effluents were prepared and used in the development of LFPs on different substrates. The formation of the CICPs was confirmed by FT-IR, SEM and DSC. Excellent visualization images of latent fingerprints developed with CICPs, especially for latent fingerprints deposited on the smooth and non-porous surface, can be obtained quickly by the powder method. The Level 3 features of fingerprints such as pores were observed clearly and benefit for identification. Meanwhile, the developing performance of latent fingerprints can be maintained for 15 days, indicating that the CICPs showed good stability and was expected to be practically applied in forensic science.