Covert IR-to-IR Phosphors for Secure Product Verification
Phosphor systems are widely used but often vulnerable. Conventional phosphors are well understood, even by counterfeiters, and basic detectors can be deceived leading to false positives and unreliable security.
Microtrace IR-to-IR phosphors eliminate these weaknesses. Engineered phosphor materials are paired with tightly controlled application and detection methods to ensure consistent, secure authentication. These systems are colorless at use levels, highly stable, and emit a unique IR fluorescence signature for simple, on-the-spot verification.
How It Works
IR-to-IR phosphors are down-conversion materials that fluoresce at longer wavelengths after infrared excitation. Microtrace-formulated phosphors are:
- Approximately 5 microns in size
- Colorless and invisible at use levels
- Stable under heat and light exposure
- Readily detected with handheld or inline detectors
- Supplied in high-viscosity inks for consistent print quality
Detection & Verification
Effective phosphor systems depend on both consistent application and tightly controlled detection.
- handheld detectors
Pre-programmed devices are calibrated to specific phosphor signatures and delivered ready to use. Each unit is designed to prevent tampering or reconfiguration.
- Inline monitoring
Optional inline readers can validate phosphor presence and detect print inconsistencies during production.
Proven Applications
Microtrace phosphor systems are used in:
- Secure packaging and product authentication
- Security labels and taggant transfers
- Currency and tax stamp protection
- Coated products requiring covert identifiers
Integration
Unlike raw material suppliers, Microtrace delivers a complete system that includes formulation, print guidance, and detection.
- High-Viscosity Ink Formulations
Phosphors are dispersed in security inks engineered for minimal separation and maximum uniformity which is essential for accurate detection.
- print implementation support
We provide detailed specifications to your print partners and offer pre-printed labels or taggant transfers for optimal consistency.
- signature accuracy
By combining high-viscosity ink formulations with strict detection parameters, these systems minimize error and ensure accurate field and production level verification.
Our end-to-end support ensures consistent performance from print to field authentication.
