investigator have developed a new fingerprint analysis proficiency that can detect whether a someone has taken cocaine . The written report , published in the journalAnalyst , suggests fingerprint leave a ‘ non - invasive ’ and ‘ hygienic ’ alternative to current testing methods .
Researchers from the University of Surrey used an analytic chemistry technique calledmass spectrometryto discover the chemicals that cocaine users release when the drug is broken down in the eubstance . These chemical , call benzoylecgonine and methylecgonine , are find in fingermark residue . By analyze these fingerprints , research worker were able to test whether cocaine had been have , not just touch .
" For our part of the investigation , we sprayed a beam of solvent onto the fingerprint lantern slide ( a technique known as Desorption Electrospray Ionization , or DESI ) to determine if these substances were present . DESI has been used for a number of forensic applications , but no other study have shown it to show drug use , ” steer author Dr. Melanie Bailey from the University of Surrey saidin a statement .
researcher tested the fingerprint from patient take care drug discourse services against the more traditional method acting of analyse spittle sample . The study showed the mental test could be as accurate as ceremonious methods .
" The beauty of this method is that , not only is it non - invading and more hygienical than testing profligate or saliva , it ca n’t be faked,“said Bailey . " By the very nature of the exam , the identity of the depicted object is captured within the fingerprint ridge detail itself . "
Fingerprints can overcome the special limitations associated with blood and piddle testing , research worker suggest . Blood testing can require trained staff , and urine examination raises privacy concerns , and both samples have to be treated as biological luck .
Bailey suggests a range of use for fingermark testing , including drug trial run for law enforcement .
While the study point to the hypothesis of the trial becoming portable , Baileytells the BBCthat the mass mass spectrometer is currently “ the same size as a lavation auto ” and the one used in the bailiwick is not cheap . Researchers hope with the ontogeny of smaller and trashy mickle spectrometer , the trial could become portable and wide uncommitted .
" We are only rebound by the size of the current technology . Companies are already working on miniaturise masses mass spectrometer , and in the succeeding portable fingerprint drug trial could be deployed . This will facilitate to protect the public and indeed provide a much safe run for drug users,“saidDr . Nathaniel Bailey .
