Abstract: A method is used to expose a fingerprint on the surface of a metallic object which is covered with a layer of a metallic oxide such as rust. The metallic oxide is dissolved with a reagent which reacts with the metallic oxide. The dissolved metallic oxide is removed from the surface of the metallic object by washing with water to expose the fingerprint and a permanent copy is made of the fingerprint. More specifically, rust from a ferrous object is dissolved with an aqueous acid, the acid and dissolved rust is washed away with water, and a photograph is taken of the exposed fingerprint. The rust can also be dissolved by spraying the rust with a Precision Brand Step #3 Aerosol Rust Inhibitor and Lubricant. The rust can be removed by contacting the rust with a reagent containing a complexing agent for Fe(III) ions.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of developing fingerprints on an object by cyanoacrylate fuming. The apparatus includes a container having a chamber, an opening to the chamber and a mechanism for evacuating air from the chamber. The apparatus also includes a cover for hermetically sealing the opening, an exposed upper surface in the chamber for receiving drops of cyanoacrylate and an electrical heater for heating the exposed upper surface. More specifically, the electrical heater is located in the chamber and supports a receptacle which has the exposed upper surface. The electrical heater has an electrical cord that extends through an airtight fixture which is attached to the cover.