Strategies for latent fingermark development using metal organic frameworks

Latent fingermarks (LFMs) constitute a pivotal form of individualizing evidence in forensic science, and the quality of their visualization directly affects the reliability of case interpretation and judicial decision making. However, conventional development techniques often struggle to meet the increasing analytical demands posed by modern, complex forensic scenarios. In recent years, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), characterized by tunable pore environments and outstanding luminescent properties, have emerged as promising materials for LFM development. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in MOF-based strategies for LFM visualization, encompassing biomineralization induced nucleation approaches, engineered fluorescent powder systems, multifunctional sensing platforms, and, more recently, the simultaneous visualization and spatial localization of residue derived information within ridge patterns. Collectively, these developments highlight the adaptability and unique advantages of MOF materials across diverse forensic contexts. More importantly, they provide a new analytical chemistry paradigm that advances LFM development from mere morphological visualization toward integrated residue information interrogation.