Frequency-Domain Lifetime Fluorescence (fLF) Imaging for Latent Fingerprint Detection & Visualization

50766-98-I Frequency-Domain Lifetime Fluorescence (fLF) Imaging for Latent Fingerprint Detection & Visualization--Systems & Processes Engineering Corporation (SPEC), 101 West 6th Street, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78701; (512) 306-1100 Dr. Sydney J. Ulvick, Principal Investigator Mr. James McNeal, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82686 Amount: $75,000 Techniques for effectively visualizing water-insoluble fingerprint residues are lacking, despite predictions that lipids are the predominant component of fingerprints. New technology is needed to provide this ability to law enforcement agencies. Latent fingerprint imaging with laser fluorescence suffers from background interference arising from the substrate. Fluorescence lifetime imaging solves these problems, even when there is significant spectral overlap. Lifetime imaging may already be able to image lipids directly; if not, presently available fingerprint complexing chemicals will likely provide acceptable lifetime imaging targets. This project will develop a complete fluorescence imaging system design. In order to demonstrate fingerprint signal discrimination at single points, standardized fingerprints will be placed on coupons of candidate substrate materials, and fluorescence lifetime will be evaluated. Both water-soluble and water-insoluble fingerprint components will be evaluated. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The proposed system should provide versatility for imaging a wide variety of trace chemicals on surfaces, regardless of spectral overlap with the substrate._