Visualization of latent and depleted fingermarks on CDs and DVDs using columnar thin films

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that conformally grown upright columnar thin films (CTFs) on CDs and DVDs significantly improve the visualization of latent fingermarks, even after several days, by enhancing their visual quality for forensic analysis.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel method of using columnar thin films to enhance latent fingermarks on CDs and DVDs, improving visualization quality and longevity.

Findings

CTFs significantly enhance fingermark visibility.

Enhancement persists even after three days.

Method is effective for forensic applications.

Abstract

CDs and DVDs are forensically important substrates for latent fingermarks. Upright columnar thin films (CTFs) grown conformally over these substrates were shown to significantly enhance the visual quality of fingermarks. Enhancement to maximum possible grade for visual quality occurred, even for the samples that were developed three days after the fingermarks were placed on them. The CTFs were deposited by directing a collimated vapor flux of an evaporant material towards the substrate placed at an angle and made to rotate rapidly.