Dye Stain
Merbromin
DISCLAIMER: Area of suspected blood must be dry prior to the application of Merbromin. The application of Merbromin may also degrade DNA.
1. Evenly spray item with Working Solution A (Merbromin Solution) using a fine-mist aerosol applicator.
2. Allow item to air dry completely.
3. Spray item a second time with Working Solution A (Merbromin Solution) and allow item to air dry completely again.
4. Evenly spray item with Working Solution B (Hydrogen Peroxide Solution) using a fine-mist aerosol applicator.
5. Allow item to air dry completely.
6. Spray item a second time with Working Solution B (Hydrogen Peroxide Solution) and allow item to air dry completely again.
7. Ridges will develop a yellow fluorescent color and can be captured using 1:1 photography.
8. View ridge detail using a forensic light source in the 435 – 515nm range with orange goggles.
9. Capture ridge detail with 1:1 photography using an orange barrier filter.
View under
435 - 515nm
Goggles / Filter
Orange
Development Color
Yellow
PRO TIP: Merbromin is helpful for developing prints on dark backgrounds when other blood enhancement reagents would lack contrast.
REFERENCES
(2018). Technical Procedure for Merbromin. Retrieved from https://forensicresources.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Merbromin-01-19-2018.pdf
DeHaan, J.D. et al. Chemical Enhancement of Fingerprints in Blood: An Evaluation of Methods, Effects on DNA< and Assessment of Chemical Hazards. Retrieved from http://www.latent-prints.com/cac_blood.htm