Electrochemiluminescence imaging of latent fingerprints by electropolymerized luminol

An efficient method has been developed for visualizing latent fingerprints by spatially selective electropolymerization of luminol on the ITO electrode. The fingerprint deposited on the electrode surface functions as a mask so that polyluminol is formed on the bare electrode surface. Therefore, electrochemiluminescence is only generated between the ridges of fingerprint, eventually yielding a negative ECL image. This method is easy to operate and safe to examiners. In addition, the second- and third-level details of fingerprints can be well resolved, indicating the potential application for personal identification and forensic investigation.