3D printable phase change information storage label films for dynamic and multi-level anti-counterfeiting

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Engineering
• Security Technology

Background:

• Global counterfeiting necessitates advanced anti-counterfeiting technologies.
• Existing solutions often lack dynamic or multi-level security features.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop 3D printable phase change information storage label films.
• To create dynamic, multi-level anti-counterfeiting solutions with enhanced security.

Main Methods:

• Extrusion-based 3D printing was employed to fabricate customizable labels.
• Phase change materials (PCMs) with distinct transition temperatures (30°C and 53°C) were integrated.
• Infrared thermography was used to reveal information based on thermal response.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated 3D printable labels capable of storing complex encrypted information (barcodes, QR codes).
• Demonstrated dynamic information revelation under specific temperature and duration using PCMs.
• Achieved multi-level encryption through sequential information decryption at different temperature intervals.

Conclusions:

• PCM-based 3D printing offers a versatile platform for high-capacity information storage.
• The developed labels provide adaptable and significantly enhanced anti-counterfeiting security.
• This technology holds potential for diverse industrial applications requiring robust security measures.