Nanoparticle-Based Latent Fingerprint Development Technology: A Systematic Review of Recent Advances and Limitations

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study comprehensively reviews nanoparticle-based latent fingerprint detection technologies by analyzing research published between January 2024 and June 2025. Traditional methods including powder dusting, chemical reagents, and optical techniques face limitations in sensitivity, selectivity, and substrate dependency, ultimately failing to guarantee consistent results across diverse crime scenes. Nanoparticles have emerged as highly promising and versatile alternatives due to their unique physicochemical and optical properties. Analysis reveals that nanoparticles enable precise visualization of not only major ridge patterns (Level 1) but also minutiae (Level 2) and fine structures such as sweat pores (Level 3) across various surfaces. These materials provide superior contrast and sensitivity compared to conventional methods, minimizing structural loss even on complex substrates with high background interference. Their excellent luminescence properties deliver stable and reliable signals under diverse light sources, and water and heat resistance have been clearly demonstrated in several recent studies. However, challenges remain including synthesis reproducibility, manufacturing costs, safety assessment, equipment compatibility, and lack of international standardization. Future research should focus on synthesis optimization, cost reduction, safety evaluation, and establishment of standardized forensic protocols to enhance practical applicability.

목차 (Table of Contents)

• Ⅰ. Introduction 1
• Ⅱ. Materials and Methods 9
• 1. Literature Search 9
• 2. Study Selection and Screening 11
• 3. Data Extraction and Analysis 14
• Ⅲ. Results 17
• 1. Organic Nanomaterials for Latent Fingerprint Detection 17
• 1-1. Carbon-Based Nanoparticles 19
• 1-2. Fluorescence-Based Nanoparticles 29
• 2. Inorganic Nanomaterials for Latent Fingerprint Detection 40
• 2-1. Rare-Earth-Based Nanoparticles 42
• 2-2. Metal Oxide-Based Nanoparticles 53
• Ⅳ. Discussion 63
• 1. Comparative Evaluation of Nanoparticle Classes 63
• 2. Forensic Advantages and Limitations 65
• 3. Comparison with Conventional Fingerprint Methods 66
• 4. Practical Implications and Material Selection 67
• Ⅴ. Conclusion 68
• 1. Summary of Key Findings 69
• 2. Comparative Performance Assessment 71
• 3. Challenges and Limitations 73
• 4. Future Research Directions 74
• 5. Broader Implications 76
• References 77
• Abstract in Korean 87