Visualization of latent fingerprints on molybdenum substrate with Ni electrodeposited and Ni-basalt co-electrodeposited composite layers

The aim of this paper is to use pure Ni and layers based on Ni and particles of basalt (B) for the development and visualization of latent fingerprints on Mo substrate by taking of the marks’ topography and mechanical advantages. B was used as reinforcement under co-electrodeposition process of Ni-B layers with the aim to obtain better contrast between ridges. The microstructural and chemical properties were tested using FE-SEM/EDS and AFM. The Ni-sulphamate bath without/with particles were used for synthesizing of layers in the direct current regimes, first on clean substrate, and then on substrate where the fingerprints were placed. The adhesion properties of layers were evaluated using scratch tape adhesion test. All layers were deposited with variations in current densities. An improvement adhesion property was observed for all Ni-B layers. The more visible development of fingerprints was obtained at higher current density, for Ni, and at lower current density, for Ni-B layers.