A vacuum coating technique for the development of latent fingerprints on polythene.

The development of latent fingerprints on low density polyethylene (polythene) packaging film by powdering has been hitherto unsatisfactory other than for fresh or heavy prints. Laboratory experiments and operational trials are described here of a vacuum deposition technique which has a considerably higher success rate. Ridge detail has been developed in 70% of operational cases and useful marks found in approximately 35% of cases.