CHHS Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) Certificate Practice Exam

Cyanoacrylate, commonly known as Super Glue, is primarily used for developing fingerprints on non-porous surfaces. This method involves fuming the surface with cyanoacrylate vapors, which adhere to the lipids and moisture found in fingerprint residues. The reaction forms a visible white polymer that outlines the fingerprint, making it easier to photograph and analyze.

Non-porous surfaces include materials like glass, plastics, and metals, which do not absorb moisture or the components of fingerprints. This makes them ideal for the cyanoacrylate fuming technique, as the vapor can settle and react effectively on the smooth, non-absorptive surfaces.

In contrast, porous surfaces (such as paper or cardboard) absorb moisture and oils, making them less suitable for this method, as the cyanoacrylate cannot adhere properly to the fingerprint residues. Similarly, biological materials (which may include skin or bodily fluids) and textiles (like cloth) do not provide the right conditions for the fuming process or may interfere with the visualization of fingerprints, reinforcing the effectiveness of cyanoacrylate on non-porous surfaces.