Scientists Recover Fingerprints from Fired Bullet Casings
For the first time, scientists have managed to retrieve fingerprints from fired bullet casings — a task long considered impossible due to extreme heat and pressure destroying biological traces during a shot. The breakthrough opens new possibilities in forensic science and criminal investigations.
Electrochemical discovery from Ireland
Researchers at Maynooth University in Ireland have developed an innovative electrochemical method that allows investigators to visualize fingerprints even on metal surfaces exposed to gunfire. The technique involves placing the cartridge in an electrochemical cell filled with a special reactive solution and applying a mild electrical current.
How the method works
Chemical agents migrate toward the metal surface, filling microscopic gaps between ridge lines of the latent print. Within minutes, a sharp, high-contrast image of the fingerprint emerges, making identification possible. Unlike traditional powder or vapor techniques, this approach does not rely on organic residues that are typically destroyed during firing.
Works even on old evidence
Tests showed that the process successfully revealed fingerprints on bullet casings fired more than sixteen months earlier. This resilience makes the technology a valuable tool for reopening cold cases and enhancing long-term evidence storage. The method could significantly extend the timeframe in which ballistic materials remain useful for identification.
Beyond firearms: broader forensic potential
Scientists believe the same technique can be adapted for other metal surfaces such as knives, locks, or incendiary devices. Its potential applications range from firearm investigations to arson cases and industrial forensics. Experts view this discovery as a milestone that may redefine how forensic teams handle metallic evidence in the coming decade.
Editorial Team — CoinBotLab