Recent Advances in Fluorescent Sensors for On-Site Forensic Analysis

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Fluorescent sensors are crucial for sensitive and specific on-site detection in forensic science.
• Their application is expanding in areas like illicit drug detection, residue analysis, and latent fingerprint identification.
• Despite advancements, challenges in sensor design, signal amplification, and device miniaturization persist.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent advancements in fluorescent sensors for forensic applications.
• To explore future development trends in fluorescent sensing technology for on-site forensic detection.
• To provide a comprehensive reference for developing future fluorescent sensors with enhanced capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of recent research on fluorescent sensors in forensic science.
• Analysis of current challenges and limitations in fluorescent sensor technology for forensic use.
• Exploration of emerging trends and future directions in the field.

Main Results:

• Fluorescent sensors show significant promise in detecting illicit drugs, toxicological substances, gunshot/explosive residues, and latent fingerprints.
• Key challenges include structural sensor design, signal amplification, simultaneous multitarget detection, and device miniaturization/intelligentization.
• Recent progress highlights advancements in sensitivity, specificity, and on-site applicability.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescent sensing technology is rapidly evolving, offering enhanced capabilities for forensic investigations.
• Addressing current challenges is vital for realizing the full potential of portable, intelligent fluorescent sensors.
• Future research should focus on high targeting capability, low background interference, portability, and advanced intelligence in sensor design.