Preliminary evaluation of Solstice® PF as a replacement carrier solvent for Australian fingermark detection. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bouzin, Jemmy T.; Frick, Amanda A.; Sauzier, Georgina; Lewis, Simon W.
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 340(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Latent fingermarks -- Paper substrates -- 1, 2-indanedione -- Carrier solvents -- Supply chain issues -- Solstice® PF; Medical jurisprudence -- Periodicals; Chemistry, Forensic -- Periodicals; Forensic Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine légale -- Périodiques; Chimie légale -- Périodiques; Gerechtelijke geneeskunde; Gerechtelijke chemie; Gerechtelijke psychiatrie; Chemistry, Forensic; Medical jurisprudence; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111465
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0379-0738

Abstract

Abstract: HFE-7100 is a routine carrier solvent in amino acid-sensitive fingermark detection reagents such as ninhydrin and 1, 2-indanedione/zinc chloride (IND/Zn). However, a potential EU ban on hydrofluoroethers may require reformulation of these treatments worldwide. Solstice® PF has shown promise as a replacement for HFE-7100 in the United Kingdom. However, the performance (and hence optimal formulation) of IND/Zn is impacted by differences in climate and substrate composition, necessitating assessments under local conditions for different regions. We present a series of preliminary investigations in an Australian context, using the IND/Zn formulation used by Australian forensic service providers. The general performance of Solstice® PF-based IND/Zn was comparable to that using HFE-7100 on three substrate types, three ageing periods (1, 7 and 30 days) and 5 donors. However, slight differences in colour and luminescence intensity, as well as increased ink diffusion, suggest chemical interactions with other reagent components that may affect stability. Specifically, Solstice® PF-based reagent formed a precipitate within a month of storage, though this did not affect performance over a 4 month period. HFE-7100-based IND/Zn was found to be marginally more effective than Solstice® PF when applied to incidental fingermarks. These results indicate that Solstice® PF is a satisfactory alternative carrier solvent to HFE-7100 in an Australian context, though users should be aware of possible limitations regarding compatibility with other evidence components (particularly inks) and shelf-life. Highlights: Alternative carrier solvent to HFE-7100 supply chain issues. Comparison of Solstice® PF and HFE-7100 in Australian IND/Zn formulation. Comparable performance, however, Solstice® PF falls short on some aspects. Solstice® PF higher polarity may cause ink diffusion. Local evaluations key to fingermark detection reagent modifications.