Latent Print Sequential Processing - Chemical and Powders

Latent Print Sequential Processing – Chemical & Powder Techniques
32-Hour Hands-On Development & Processing Course

This 32-hour course provides in-depth training on the sequential processing of latent prints using both chemical and powder-based development techniques. Designed for crime scene personnel, laboratory technicians, and developing latent print examiners, this course teaches the proper order, application, and scientific reasoning behind each processing method to maximize print recovery from a wide variety of surfaces.

Through lecture, guided demonstrations, and extensive hands-on practicals, students will learn how to select appropriate chemical reagents, powders, and processing sequences based on surface type, environmental conditions, and case priorities. Emphasis is placed on avoiding destructive methods, preserving DNA potential, and documenting prints to laboratory and courtroom standards.

Core topics include:

Theory and workflow of sequential latent print processing

Surface evaluation and selection of appropriate development methods

Powder techniques: traditional, magnetic, dual-use, fluorescent, and specialty powders

Chemical processes: Ninhydrin, DFO, 1,2-Indanedione, Cyanoacrylate (superglue), Rhodamine, Sudan Black, SPR, etc.

Proper fuming procedures, humidity control, and safety considerations

Photographic documentation and note-taking for court defensibility

Common processing errors and how to prevent loss of evidence

Methods for processing porous, non-porous, semi-porous, wet, and textured surfaces

Students will leave with a complete understanding of how and why processing sequences matter, along with the confidence and competency to independently develop, document, and preserve latent prints using industry-standard forensic practices.

Ideal for:
✅ Latent print trainees & examiners
✅ Crime scene investigators & evidence technicians
✅ Laboratory personnel involved in print development
✅ Agencies seeking to expand in-house processing capabilities

Hands-on, science-based, and evidence-driven—this course is essential for anyone responsible for the recovery and preservation of latent print evidence.