Latent finger mark recovery and DNA retrieval
Latent finger mark recovery and DNA retrieval
The Metropolitan Police Service UK in association with Kings Imperial College London have pioneered research on using ISOMARK for casting finger marks and simultaneously retrieving the DNA from the mark.
Unlike many other casting materials, ISOMARK has been specifically formulated for forensic applications and does not damage the original mark. It is dimensionally stable and good quality DNA is obtainable from the recovered marks.
Having a finger mark with the associated DNA brings together two very powerful forms of evidence.
Isomark has been used to recover finger marks and associated DNA on the following difficult substrates:
- cold aluminium cans
- light bulbs
- coins
- plastic water bottles
- latent finger marks on burnt out vehicles
- shotgun barrels
Recommended compounds for this application
Useful links
- The recovery of latent fingermarks and DNA using a silicone-based casting material (PDF 861KB)
- Isomark Spray: A Novel Method for the Replication of Marks (PDF 969KB)
- Application techniques – 50ml (PDF 90KB)
- Application techniques – 10ml Syringe (PDF 80KB)
- Toolmarks brochure (PDF 843 KB)
- Operating instructions 50ml (PDF 217KB)
- Troubleshooting (PDF 15KB)