Ferro Trace

If a person has contact with a metal object for a sufficient amount of time, metal ions may transfer from the object to the skin (or clothing). These ions will react with the Ferro Trace Detection Solution and fluoresce under ultraviolet (UV) light. The color of the fluorescence can indicate the type of metal contacted, and the pattern observed can indicate the general shape of the metal object. This technique is most often used in corroboration of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Other scenarios may produce contact with metal objects in which this technique may also be useful.