Exploration of Latent Fingerprint Development in Glove Impressions

In this experiment, four different types of disposable gloves made of different materials were pressed onto the surfaces of A4 paper (with ink), adhesive tape, glass, aluminum alloy and white plastic window frames, to observe the marks left by gloves made of different materials on various non-porous substrates. The results of the experiment showed that the impressions left on the non-porous surfaces by polyvinyl chloride gloves and medical examination gloves showed recognizable ridges of forensic value when they were embossed and revealed using a magnetic powder brush. Notably, medical examination gloves containing oil and sweat residues showed optimal results with high forensic potential when imprinted on the tape surface and photographed using transmitted light. In addition, PVC gloves and medical examination gloves retained distinctive ridges in the impressions left on the glass surface and maintained high-quality identifying features even after an interval of 6 days. In summary, these experimental results are important for guiding the scene investigation in cases involving the use of gloves. However, based on the characteristics of PVC gloves and medical examination gloves observed in the experiments, it is not recommended these two kinds of gloves during evidence collection. The results of the study provide valuable insights for optimizing fingerprint identification techniques and improving the efficiency and accuracy of forensic investigations involving glove-related evidence.