Fingermark (IMAGE) Aarhus University Caption Figure 2: Example of using the new method: (A) shows a digital photo of fingerprints on a gelatin lifter (the prints are developed with white powder and lifted from a glass surface). It is clear that there are two overlapping prints, but the pattern details of the individual prints in the overlapping area are not immediately visible in the digital photo. With the new method, we can create hundreds of images of the chemical compounds present in the fingerprints. As shown in (B), some of these compounds are unique to each fingerprint, allowing us to visually separate the prints. A more detailed chemical analysis (not shown here) also tells us that the two compounds, m/z 284 and m/z 521, are substances commonly used as additives in personal care products, such as hand creams, body lotions, and foundations. Credit Aarhus University Usage Restrictions To be used with this article only License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.