Preparation of photoluminescent nanocomposite ink for detection and mapping of fingermarks

Abstract Simple and efficient detection and mapping method based on a strong turn‐on fluorescent pigment was developed for fingerprint analysis. We present a phosphor powder characterized by strong emission which is useful to achieve better fingerprint detection on multicolored or photoluminescent surfaces, such as currency notes characterized by optically changeable inks and highly fluorescent positions, because it offers better contrast and reduce the difficulty of background interference. Novel photochromic ink was prepared to establish a fingerprinted colorless film onto cellulose documents with green emission for anticounterfeiting applications as illustrated by photoluminescence spectra. Inorganic/organic nanoscale composite ink was prepared from rare‐earth doped aluminate phosphor nanoparticles (PNPs; 27–49 nm) dispersed in a polyacrylic acid binding agent. PNPs were dispersed efficiently in polyacrylic acid to generate a colorless mark. The produced photochromic inks were spray‐coated onto off‐white paper sheets enclosing invisible fingermarks, and then exposed to thermofixation. Photochromic film was detected on paper surface presenting a transparent appearance under visible daylight and switchable to green under UV light. The CIE Lab parameters and photoluminescence spectra were studied under visible light and ultraviolet irradiation. The fingerprinted sheets showed fluorescence band at 517 nm upon excitation at 366 nm, showing a bathochromic shift and reversible photochromism without fatigue. The morphologies of pigment phosphor particles and fingerprinted sheets were inspected. The rheological properties of ink and mechanical behavior of the fingerprinted paper samples were explored. Highlights Novel smart ink with alkaline‐earth aluminate and polyacrylic acid was developed. Dual‐mode fluorescent photochromism was presented for latent fingerprint analysis. Off‐white fingerprinted films under daylight showed color change to green under UV. Fluorescence band monitored at 517 nm upon excitation at 366 nm. Fluorescent fingermark on paper sheets demonstrated good photostability.