caeliluminar (caeliluminar) wrote in little_details,
caeliluminar
caeliluminar
little_details

Burning fingertips with acid

I have a character who wants to burn his fingertips off with acid so that he couldn't be recognised by his previously taken fingerprints anymore (he's not the sanest person on Earth). Sulfuric acid would apparently be strong enough to do this, but how would he go about not damaging himself more than necessary (how long to keep the fingertips in the acid, what to do afterwards)? I've read first aid instructions for sulfuric acid burns but they only tell to rinse the burn in a mild soap and water solution and then get help. My character can't involve hospital or other people, although he has lots of time and resources to prepare and is very intelligent despite the situation.

The technology and medicine are about at the level of the early 20th century (mix and match alternate history).

Also, for those experienced with acid burns, how would this feel aside from "hurts like hell"?

And, in case I've missed something obvious, is there a better permanent and dramatic way to completely get rid of your fingerprints?

EDIT. Thanks for the answers, seems like sulfuric acid was overkill. Now I like the idea of open flame better, it creates a nice visual and actually fits better on a symbolic level. Never thought you could lose fingerprints that easily.
Tags: ~medicine: burns & smoke inhalation, ~science: chemistry
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