| Author | Message | ||
     william t jordan |
i have a two part question concerning fingerprints on a car, with a car that has mostly a leather interior, how long would a print last inside a car? also how long would a print last on the exterior of a car in comparision to inside? the question in concerns a case in arkansas over a dwi case where a person was left in the car and if it was possible to prove with prints that the person didn't drive there and save said person problems they didn't need. | ||
| Michele Triplett |
Arvey, You're right, the matrix (a transferable substance on a finger) is one of the factors that effects the life span of a latent print. But you're assuming that the matrix is eccrine sweat (99% water). The compostition of sebacous sweat is almost all fats, oils and waxes (which would not dehydrate as fast). There is no way of determining the composition of a latent print without chemical analysis. Even though latent prints are generally quoted as being 99% water, I think it's reasonable to assume that this isn't true. Our hands probably have all sorts of different substances on them. | ||
| sandhua |
It depends on the Matrix. The composition of Fingerprint is approx 99% water and the rest is either organic substance or inorganic. Environmental factors play an impaortant role as well. Such as amino acids deposited in fingerprint Matrix will likely be destroyed with heat. Humidity, too will effect its life span. Don't just look into the substrate (smooth surface) and try to determine fingerprint's life span. Arvey Sandhu, OPP Ontario Police College, Canada | ||
| Steve |
Yes Don, it is possible for a latent fingerprint to remain on a smooth surface for 10 years. Of course it is also possible for it to be obliterated in less than 10 seconds. Many different factors influence the life of a latent print. | ||
| Don Espinoza |
Is it possible for fingerprints to remain on a smooth surface for 10 years? |
