Change in colour combats counterfeits

DataLase, the colour change technology developed by UK company Sherwood Technology, is finding applications in the fight against counterfeiting. DataLase combines chemistry and substrate conversion and uses low power CO2 laser light energy to create a permanent, discreet mark for covert and overt security applications.

For example, a tiny 2D Datamatrix code can be formed through films, and can be sandwiched between the layers of a laminate material. The DataLase chemistry is incorporated at the manufacturing stage and is subsequently laser marked.

For covert product authentication, images can be transferred onto transparent media via a laser without interfering with the translucency of the underlying substrate. Counterfeiters are unable to spot the presence of the DataLase Clear material as it becomes visible only when exposed to laser energy.

'Existing methods have become stagnant and predictable to counterfeiters who find ways around them; DataLase has the potential to revolutionise the market,' said Steve Kelly, managing director of Sherwood Technology.