Comparison of Derivatization Methods for Groomed Latent Print Residues Analysis via Gas Chromatography

The practice of latent print analysis is comprised a visual examination and the comparison fingerprint pattern from questioned to an exemplar(s). When either smudged or contains little detail, would be considered inconclusive determination. However, in these scenarios, residues (LPRs) could provide associative information supplement current ACE-V (Analysis, Comparison, Examination-Verification) process. Advancements using analytical techniques allow for LPR chemistry; however, derivatization generally required increase abundance components not traditionally observed gas chromatography. This study aimed determine whether two reagents, boron trifluoride methanol (BF3-MeOH) N-methyl-N-(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (MSTFA), better recovery porous non-porous substrate. Five volunteers deposited groomed samples onto substrates: microfiber filter (porous) microscope slide (non-porous). were derivatized evaporated prior chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. percent recoveries higher, >83%, DCM extracted both substrates compared those prepared hexanes. DCM/MSTFA provided fatty acids that ranged 20 30% squalene at rate 2.37% sample 4.2% sample. These rates higher than obtained hexanes/BF3-MeOH-derivatized samples, with range 1–8% 0.6–0.85% substrates. Overall, MSTFA reagent produced on while providing chromatographic profile similar non-derivatized use as solvent wider recovered hexanes and, thus, should used extraction when derivatizing regardless