A novel fingerprint powder composition based on methyl orange has been formulated. The other ingredients of formulation are boric acid and talcum powder. The formulation develops sharp and clear fingerprints on wide range of dry, smooth, non-porous surfaces such as glass, metallic spoon, plastic folder etc. This formulation is useful in detecting and developing weak and fragmented chance prints from scene of crime. The developed formulation is non-hazardous, non-toxic and cost-effective in nature.

Keywords: Latent fingerprints; Powder method; Methyl orange; Non-porous surfaces.