Story perspectives

Revolutionary Method Reveals Gunfingerprints, Transforming Forensics

10/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Maynooth University researchers Dr. Eithne Dempsey and Dr. Colm McKeever developed an electrochemical fingerprint method for brass casings.
The method uses safe polymers and minimal energy to reveal ridge patterns quickly.
It challenges the view that firing a gun destroys fingerprint residues and could transform forensics.
The technique may extend to other metallic surfaces, broadening potential forensic applications.
Further testing is required before law enforcement agencies can adopt the method.

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Story summary

Maynooth University researchers Dr. Eithne Dempsey and Dr. Colm McKeever developed an electrochemical fingerprint method for brass casings.
The method uses safe polymers and minimal energy to reveal ridge patterns quickly.
It challenges the view that firing a gun destroys fingerprint residues and could transform forensics.
The technique may extend to other metallic surfaces, broadening potential forensic applications.
Further testing is required before law enforcement agencies can adopt the method.