Flourescence Detection of Latent Images

50818-98-I Flourescence Detection of Latent Images--Ciencia, Inc., 111 Roberts Street, East Hartford, CT 06108-3653; (860) 528-9737 Dr. Salvador M. Fernandez, Principal Investigator Mr. Arturo O. Pilar, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82553 Amount: $75,000 Current methods for detecting lipid latent images (e.g., fingerprints) are limited in applicability and do not provide satisfactory performance in many circumstances. A novel method for detection of lipid latent images will be developed that solves the problems of existing approaches. The proposed method is based on the use of environmentally sensitive long-wavelength fluorescent dyes for direct labeling of lipids. This approach will provide high sensitivity and image contrast, and will be capable of latent image visualization and recording on site under ambient illumination. The Phase I project will evaluate a number of dye candidates and their performance by visualizing model latent lipid images on a variety of substrates, including those that are problematic with current techniques. This approach will be compared with current methods. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: National security and public safety agencies will benefit from this technology, including those agencies concerned with proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, special nuclear materials, operation of secure facilities, counterfeiting, smuggling of drugs, terrorism, as well as more common forms of criminal activity._