Utilizing Activated Carbon from the Date Fronds to Detect Latent Fingerprints
International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine,
Vol. 15 No. 03 (2025),
22 Shahrivar 2025
,
Page 1-10
https://doi.org/10.22037/ijmtfm.v15i03.49955
Abstract
Background: In this work, a fingerprint powder was used to reveal latent fingerprints from different surfaces. This powder was derived from the Date fronds as activated carbon.
Methods: In preparing the activated carbon, three parameters were studied: activation time, activation temperature, and impregnation ratio. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to characterize the prepared Date frond activated carbon (DFAC) as well as the raw material (Date frond plant). Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) was used to measure the specific surface area of DFAC. The surface shape and the element composition of the prepared powder were investigated using (SEM-EDS) analysis. A Central Composite Design (CCD) was employed to determine the optimal preparation conditions and to elucidate the relationship between the studied parameters and the response (yield). Sodium acetate and mineral oil were added to the (DFAC) powder in five different concentrations to enhance the intensity of the expression, thereby revealing latent fingerprints.
Results: The results show that the best powder recipe was one with 20% sodium acetate and mineral oil, respectively. The Date frond activated carbon (DFAC) powder was compared with the commonly used importer powder (Sirchie) and tested for several surfaces. Additionally, the time of the latent fingerprints' presence on the surfaces was determined. It took fifteen days to notice the perfectly distinct fingerprint.
Conclusion: Activated carbon derived from Date fronds was successfully used to reveal latent fingerprints on various non-porous materials. The Date frond activated carbon (DFAC) powder showed good adherence to friction ridges and was more effective than the commercial Sirchie powder, DFAC demonstrated similar excellent results in displaying detailed fingerprint patterns. Enhancing the DFAC powder with sodium acetate and mineral oil improved the visualization intensity, with the optimal formula being 20% sodium acetate and 2% mineral oil.
- Fingerprint
- Activated charcoal (AC)
How to Cite
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