Gel Lifter
Definition
A tacky gelatin sheet used to transfer developed fingerprint impressions from textured or three-dimensional surfaces where conventional adhesive tape would not conform; available in black, white, and transparent versions.
- Material
- Silicone-rubber sheet with gel-adhesive surface
- Best for
- Textured and three-dimensional surfaces
- Available colors
- Black, white, transparent
Common questions
When do you use a gel lifter instead of regular fingerprint tape?+
Gel lifters work best on textured or three-dimensional surfaces where conventional rigid tape doesn't conform properly. The flexible silicone sheet bends to match the surface topology, making it ideal for uneven substrates, fabrics, or curved objects where tape would either not make full contact or damage the print.
What colors do gel lifters come in?+
Gel lifters are available in black, white, and transparent versions. The choice depends on the contrast you need with the powder residue and the substrate you're lifting from.
How does a gel lifter actually work?+
The gel lifter is a silicone-rubber sheet with a tacky, gel-adhesive surface. You press it onto the developed fingerprint, and the adhesive picks up the powder impression. The flexible material conforms to surface irregularities where stiffer lifters cannot, then you peel it away to transfer the print.
Related terms
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- Hinge Lifter
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Explained in these topics
- Lab Equipment and Chain of Custody for Fingerprint CaseworkA tacky gelatin sheet used to transfer developed fingerprint impressions from textured or three-dimensional surfaces where conventional adhesive tape would not...
- Powder Methods and the Latent Print Lifting WorkflowA silicone-rubber sheet with a compliant gel-adhesive surface used to lift developed latent prints from textured substrates; the flexible sheet conforms to sur...