What latent print development technique is best for processing wet nonporous materials?

The best latent print development technique for processing wet nonporous materials is the Small Particle Reagent. This method is specifically designed to adhere to latent prints that are deposited in wet conditions, making it particularly effective on wet nonporous surfaces such as glass, plastics, or metal.

When prints are left on a nonporous surface that has been exposed to moisture, traditional methods like powder dusting often do not adhere well due to the wet nature of the surface. In contrast, Small Particle Reagent operates by combining a surfactant and fine particles to enhance visibility of the prints. The surfactant helps the particles spread over the surface, effectively bonding with the oily constituents of the latent print, even if the surface is still wet.

This makes it a valuable technique in forensic investigations where conditions might not be optimal for other development methods that are not suited for wet environments, ensuring that valuable evidence can still be collected from potentially challenging scenarios.