This process creates micropatterns in the nanostructure of smart polymers, forming films that help secure against counterfeiting. Over the past decade there has been a global increase in fraud and sale of counterfeit items, including unauthorized brand names. Due to this, the market for anti-counterfeit packaging and labels has grown, and analysts expect it to grow $106 billion by 2024 . The ability of shape memory polymers to retain unique patterns can enable various security measures against counterfeiting, tampering, or brand theft. However, most shape memory polymers configure using high temperature stimuli above ambient conditions, limiting their use for many applications.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a process to inscribe specific photonic crystal micropatterns into a nanostructured shape memory polymer film. Patterns, messages, or symbols imprinted in the nanostructure of the smart polymer are revealed under chemical stimuli, creating films useful for anti-counterfeiting and microchip security processes.
Smart polymer films using a photonic crystal nanostructure that hide and reveal micropatterns such as logos, symbols, or codes, for securing computer chips or brand products against counterfeiting
The process utilizes UV light and various solvents to inscribe micropatterns into the photonic crystal nanostructure of shape memory/smart polymer films. With nanostructure features smaller than 1mm, these micropatterns can serve anti-counterfeiting purposes, leaving symbols, logos, messages, or codes in the film. The photonic crystal inscription process also has the potential to contribute to the designs of photonic integrated circuits for high-speed electronics.
