Description
DFO is a Ninhydrin analog used for developing latent prints on porous surfaces. Its fluorochrome properties make it especially useful on multicolored surfaces where the background would interfere with subsequent photography. DFO reacts with the amino acid content of fingerprint residue, and it will not interfere with subsequent analysis using Ninhydrin, Silver Nitrate or Physical Developer. In fact, some labs report that DFO use improves the results gained with Ninhydrin. DFO may even be repeated numerous times to enhance development.
According to the Manual of Fingerprint Development Techniques published by the Police Scientific Development Branch of the British Home Office, DFO will develop more fingerprints than Ninhydrin. Testing in the U.S. indicates that it will develop 2.5 times as many prints as Ninhydrin. Other testing shows that it is also effective for developing latent blood prints.
On occasion, DFO will produce lightly colored (pink) latent prints, but its real strength is in its fluorescent properties. DFO fluorescence may be produced using ultraviolet light, BLUEMAXXâ„¢ and other alternative light sources.
DFO is now packaged in a pump spray which contains 100ml of pre-mixed reagent for better control and less waste. DFO in crystal form is available for those labs preparing their own formulations.
