Visualization of Latent Fingerprints by Powder Dusting of Spiropyran Copolymer Nanoparticles

Here, the photoluminescent polymer nanoparticles containing spiropyran were synthesized by emulsion copolymerization of MMA (Methyl methacrylate) and DMAEMA (2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate), and then physical post-polymerization modification with SPOH (hydroxylated spiropyran).Investigation of optical properties by solid UV-Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopies indicated that photochromic properties and fluorescence emission of SPOH were decreased by increasing the concentration of DMAEMA in copolymer composition. The polymer powders prepared from photoluminescence copolymer nanoparticles were used for visualization of latent fingerprints under UV irradiation (365 nm) by fluorescence imaging using smartphone camera. The results showed the latent fingerprints were visualized successfully in high resolution and brightness using photoluminescence polymer powders.