Microtrace's new series of Microtaggant security inks will allow any printer to apply the anti-counterfeit technology to packaging using flexographic or screen printing processes.
In its basic form, the ink gives products and packages a unique numeric code sequence in a multiple coloured layer format. The codes will be unique for each manufacturer.
Once a formulation is produced for a customer it becomes their exclusive "fingerprint".
The inks are applied to the label and can be read and decoded with a hand-held reader or scanner. The inks are available pre-formulated in UV curable ink systems that are press ready.
The bio compatible line of Microtaggant inks may be used to authenticate food packaging materials, the company says. The firm's Microtrace film can be applied as a laminate for labels, shrink wrap and other uses.
The acetate films containing Microtaggants can be used to produce authenticated, finished holograms.
Microtrace was founded in 1985 and is based in Minneapolis, US. The company offers a variety of identification and authentication labelling in the form of compounded plastic resins, films, adhesives, paper, security labels and now security inks.
The company's customers include alcohol, tobacco, food processors and food packaging firms.
The XSYS group develops, produces and markets printing inks, printing plates, pigments and resins for the graphics and packaging industry. XSYS is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.
Flexography is the major process used to print packaging materials, including corrugated containers, folding cartons, multiwall sacks, paper sacks, plastic bags, milk and beverage cartons, disposable cups and containers, labels, adhesive tapes, envelopes, newspapers and food wrappers.