Which latent print development technique is known for being effective on wet surfaces?

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The technique known for being effective on wet surfaces is Small Particle Reagent. This method is particularly useful for developing latent prints on wet or submerged surfaces because it utilizes a solution that adheres to the fat and protein components found in fingerprint residue. When applied, the small particles in the reagent selectively bind to these components, allowing the latent prints to be visualized after rinsing.

Ninhydrin is excellent for porous surfaces such as paper but may not perform well on wet surfaces because it relies on the amino acids in the residue reacting with the reagent, which can be diminished when moisture is present. Cyanoacrylate, or superglue fuming, is effective on non-porous items but requires a dry environment to adhere the vapors to the fingerprint residue properly. Dusting powder is suitable for dry surfaces and is dependent on the powder adhering to the moisture and oils in the print; however, it may not be reliable on wet surfaces as the moisture can wash away the print or prevent the powder from adhering effectively.

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