Advances in Fluorescent Nanomaterials for Latent Fingerprint Visualization

With the increasing demands in forensic science for accurate, nondestructive, and high-sensitivity techniques, enhancing latent fingerprint visualization has emerged as a critical area of research. Traditional physical and chemical methods often prove inadequate due to challenges such as low contrast, background noise, and the irreversible alteration of fingerprint residues. In recent years, fluorescent nanomaterials have opened new avenues by harnessing their exceptional luminescent properties, high surface area, and effective interactions with fingerprint components. This review highlights recent advancements in the application of these materials (specifically quantum dots, metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, inorganic nonmetals, rare-earth compounds, and carbon dots) in fingerprint detection. The discussion emphasizes their structural characteristics, luminescence behavior, and imaging performance. Additionally, developments in dual-mode imaging techniques, environmentally friendly synthesis methods, and advanced image analysis approaches are explored as promising directions for future research and practical applications.