An apparatus and method for developing latent fingerprints has a breakable
capsule containing a cyanoacrylate monomer disposed within an internal
chamber of a housing containing a cyanoacrylate catalyst and being
adapted for emitting vapors. The housing is impregnated with the
cyanoacrylate catalyst or has a layer of cyanoacrylate catalyst on a
portion of its interior surface. The apparatus optionally has a breakable
capsule breaking mechanism for assisting a user in breaking the breakable
capsule within the housing. Upon breaking the breakable capsule, the
cyanoacrylate monomer spilling from the breakable capsule reacts with the
cyanoacrylate catalyst contained in the housing to create vapor fumes.
The vapor fumes contact an object being tested to reveal any latent
fingerprints on the object. The apparatus is sized such that it is
adapted for placing in any container, room, vehicle, or appropriate open
space.