Magnetic Powder
Definition
An iron-oxide-based latent print development powder applied with a magnetic wand rather than a brush, making near-zero contact with the substrate surface and protecting delicate or textured surfaces from abrasion.
- Composition
- Iron-oxide based
- Application tool
- Magnetic wand
- Contact level
- Near-zero direct contact with the surface
- Best suited for
- Delicate or textured surfaces
Common questions
Why is magnetic powder preferred over brush-applied powder on some surfaces?+
A bristle brush can abrade or smear a print on a delicate, textured, or non-porous surface, while a magnetic wand holds the powder in a cluster that touches the surface lightly, reducing the risk of damaging ridge detail.
Does magnetic powder work on any surface a regular powder does?+
No. It is generally unsuitable for ferromagnetic surfaces, since the powder is attracted to the object itself and can be hard to control or remove, so examiners choose a non-magnetic powder for metal items.
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- Magnetic Wand
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- Non-Porous Substrate
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- Porous Substrate
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