New line of enquiry: Fingerprint testing can reveal cocaine abuse

Scientists have developed an accurate way to test for cocaine abuse by analysing fingerprint residue. The technique, developed by researchers at the University of Surrey, allows for the detection of chemical indicators which show the drug has been ingested. There are other methods that have been developed in the past, but this one has been hailed for its pinpoint accuracy. Dr Melanie Bailey from the University of Surrey said: “To deposit a fingerprint, it takes just seconds. If you take bloods, it takes several minutes - you need trained staff and it’s not great for certain types of patients.”

If you have a fingerprint, you’ve also got the identity of that person embedded in the fingerprint so that helps the traceability of that person as well.

Dr Melanie Bailey from the University of Surrey

Research published in Analyst Magazine outlines the process of testing, which involves firing a mixture of methanol and water at a fingerprint sample through a tiny tube. In the future the technique could be developed into portable fingerprint drugs testing units for use in courts, prisons, drug clinics, hospitals and police work. Employers could even use the method for workplace testing.

Science Cocaine fingerprint