ARCHIVES
VOL. 10, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Development and application of PCS gel electrolyte for latent fingerprint detection on various metal surfaces
Authors
Wannisa Klinchan
Abstract
This study presents a
novel PCS gel technique for the development of latent fingerprints on various
metallic surfaces, including aluminum, stainless steel, brass, alloy, and zinc.
The gel formulation, composed of potassium permanganate (KMnO₄), calcium
chloride (CaCl₂), and silica powder, was optimized to a 1:1:1 ratio (5% w/v
KMnO₄, 1% w/v CaCl₂, and 5 g silica powder in 10 mL total volume), providing
clear ridge details and minutiae suitable for individual identification. The
gel consistency allows application on vertical, large, or immovable surfaces,
overcoming limitations associated with conventional liquid-based methods.
Multi-wavelength flashlight illumination was employed to enhance fingerprint
visualization, with blue light (450 nm) producing optimal contrast on both
light and dark aluminum surfaces. Comparative analysis indicated that the PCS
gel method outperforms traditional black powder techniques in revealing latent
fingerprints on metallic surfaces. The proposed method offers a simple, rapid,
and cost-effective approach for forensic fingerprint detection, with potential
for field application at crime scenes.
Pages:38-45
How to cite this article:
Wannisa Klinchan "Development and application of PCS gel electrolyte for latent fingerprint detection on various metal surfaces". International Journal of Chemical Science, Vol 10, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 38-45
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