Sirchie Volcano Polvo para impresiones latentes 101L

Sirchie Silk Black Powder 101L works best on non-porous, light-colored surfaces such as painted wood, metal, and most plastics. The dark micro-milled pigment creates strong contrast against pale backgrounds, making ridge detail easy to see, photograph, and lift. It is not recommended for porous substrates like raw wood or paper, or for dark-colored surfaces where contrast is reduced.

Regular oxide powder, like Silk Black 101L, is applied with a traditional fiber or feather brush and relies on the powder's fine particles adhering to the oils and amino acids in a latent print. Magnetic powder, by contrast, uses iron-based particles applied with a magnetic wand applicator and requires no brush contact with the surface. Oxide powders like 101L are generally preferred on smooth non-porous surfaces and are easier to transport and store, while magnetic powders can reduce background noise on some textured surfaces.

Sirchie has used the same Silk Black formulation for more than 60 years. The formula's durability and consistency across decades is part of why it remains the most popular oxide latent powder in the Sirchie lineup and a standard reference point for forensic training programs worldwide.

Sirchie Silk Black Powder 101L is classified as not hazardous under GHS US standards and is odorless under normal use. When dusting in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces, Sirchie recommends wearing a dust mask, safety glasses, and gloves to minimize inhalation of fine carbon black particles. Keep the container closed when not in use and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling.

A standard latent print brush is all you need for 101L Silk Black Powder. Fiber, feather, and squirrel hair brushes all work well with this oxide formula. Do not use a magnetic wand applicator, as this powder is not formulated for magnetic application. Load the brush lightly, apply with gentle swirling strokes over the suspected print area, and then lift with tape and backing card.