Page 34 - Veritas - 02.03.22

The main aspect that we should look into is that the conventional

techniques did not provide reliable and accurate detailed images. With

the imaging obtained with the conventional technique, it was seen that

there was a degradation of the quality of the image in a period of 8 days,

whereas it would not be visible or recognizable after 3 days and gave no

result after a period of 14 days. In the case of ToF SIMS, one of the

advantages is that in the ion beam, they were able to detect, visualize,

and examine the sample up to 26 days after collection.

According to Sharp, the experts proved that ToF SIMS provides detailed

high-resolution images with accurate details on different surfaces.

The addition of the rotation stage is significant as it helped in studying

the fingermarks on the surface in detail with less difficulty and

covering the whole surface of the sample from which the image is to be

obtained. It is even non-destructive, so it keeps the evidence intact while

it is being examined. The high-resolution images provide accurate re-

sults, which help in identifying the suspect or linking the suspect to the

crime scene or firearm ammunition.

Sharp is continuing to work on this technique of obtaining images from

the curved surfaces on the rotation stage.

This technique, along with the rotation stage, may be a very productive

contribution to the field of forensic science as it makes it easier for the

experts to examine the fingerprint impression to study the

characteristics, ridge details and obtain a high-resolution image which

helps to narrow down and link the suspect to the crime scene.

Obtaining fingerprint impressions on curved surfaces was an aspect of

difficulty when conventional methods of imaging were used.

REFERENCES:

• Taylor, M. (2021, November 15). Spectroscopy-based Fingerprint Method

Works on Challenging Surfaces. Retrieved from https://www.forensicmag.

com/580946-Spectroscopy-based-Fingerprint-Method-Works-on-Chal-

lenging-Surfaces/

• Ford, J. (2021, November 16). Fingermarks method gives boost to foren-

sics. The Engineer. Retrieved from https://www.theengineer.co.uk/fin-

germarks-nottingham-university-forensic-tof-sims/