Science is being unkind to criminals yet again with the invention of the new nanotechnology tagging system. These ‘nanotags’ sized at just 30 microns in diameter such that they attach themselves to any smooth surface, such as human skin, that comes into contact with the cartridge of the gun where it is coated. Extremely difficult to wash off, these nanotags may not even be erased by the firing of the weapon giving forensic scientists much-needed clues during a criminal investigation. Funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, the invention was made possible by a team of chemists, engineers, management scientists, sociologists and nanotechnologists from England and America.
The team has also developed the likelihood of trapping DNA on gun cartridges by making the smooth surface of the cartridge more abrasive, trapping dead cells during naked contact. It has also been ensured that the trapped cells are not damaged by the heat and chemicals released during gunfire. Since nanotags are created using naturally occurring pollen, the technology is affordable and may be available on the market within a year.
Via: Physorg
