Comparative Analysis of Coconut Husk and Coconut Shell Ash Powder for Latent Fingerprint Development.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Materials Science
• Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional fingerprint powders pose risks and are costly.
• Need for safer, cost-effective alternatives in forensic science.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate coconut ash powders for latent fingerprint development.
• Determine optimal particle size for visualization.
• Assess sweat pore visibility after powder application.

Main Methods:

• Coconut shell and husk ash ground into fine particles.
• Latent fingerprints developed on glass surfaces from 269 participants.
• Powder application and quality assessment using a standardized scale.

Main Results:

• Coconut shell ash powder at 200 mesh size yielded high-quality fingerprints.
• Clear visualization of sweat pores was achieved with coconut shell ash.
• Coconut husk ash showed less effective results compared to shell ash.

Conclusions:

• Coconut shell ash powder is a superior agent for developing clear latent fingerprints and sweat pores.
• Optimal particle size of 200 mesh for coconut shell ash powder.
• Viable, cost-effective, and safer alternative for forensic applications.