What component in the latent print deposit does superglue primarily react with?

Superglue, or cyanoacrylate, primarily reacts with water in the context of latent print development. When superglue is applied to a surface, it polymerizes in the presence of moisture that may be present in the latent print residue left behind by a finger.

Latent prints are composed of a mixture of various substances including sweat, oils, and other bodily secretions, which can contain a small amount of water. The water serves as a catalyst for the polymerization of superglue, allowing the latent print to be visualized as a white, hardened deposit. This reaction effectively captures the ridge details of the fingerprint, making them visible for analysis.

In contrast, while oils, ink, and paper can play roles in the context of fingerprints and documentation, they do not directly participate in the chemical reaction that superglue undergoes during the development of latent prints. Thus, the interaction of superglue with water is key to its effectiveness in rendering latent prints visible.