Printing & Security

Key Printing & Security Use Cases

Secure Printing & Document Authentication

Epolin dyes are widely used in security printing to create features that are invisible or unobtrusive under normal viewing conditions but detectable using specialized illumination or sensors.  Epolin dyes can produce covert or overt security features.  Custom dye solutions can be registered for the application.

Applications include:

• Secure documents and credentials
• Certificates and official forms
• Event passes and access credentials
• Serialized or track-and-trace printing

Dyes can be selected to absorb or transmit specific wavelengths, enabling covert or semi-covert authentication features without altering visible appearance.

Anti-Counterfeiting & Brand Protection

Counterfeiting and diversion are growing challenges across many industries. Epolin dyes support brand protection strategies by enabling optical markers that are difficult to duplicate without precise material knowledge.

Example applications:

• Packaging authentication features
• Brand protection labels and seals
• Tamper-evident markings and raw material additives
• Product verification elements

These features can be verified using NIR cameras, NIR or UV illumination, and other optical detection methods.

Currency, Tax Stamps & High-Value Printing

High-value printed items often rely on layered security features. Epolin dyes can be incorporated into inks or coatings to add an additional optical layer that complements existing security measures.

Applications include:

• Currency and tax stamps
• Government-issued documents
• High-value tickets and vouchers

Packaging & Supply Chain Security

In packaging applications, Epolin dyes enable discreet optical features that assist with product authentication, tracking, and quality assurance.
For distributed supply chains, ensure the raw materials that you supply or consign are used in your products by adding a unique marker to the material which can be tested upon return.  Identify dilution or incorrect loadings by analyzing the marker levels present in the final product.

Examples include:

• NIR-readable package markings
• Covert identifiers in labels or inks
• Optical features compatible with automated inspection systems
• Unique spectral features for raw material authentication and verification

These solutions can be integrated without impacting consumer-facing design or branding. 

Printing Process Compatibility

Epolin dyes are compatible with a wide range of printing and coating technologies, including:

• Flexographic printing
• Gravure printing
• Screen printing
• Inkjet printing
• Coatings and varnishes

Dyes are available in formats suitable for solvent-based, water-based, and UV-curable systems, depending on application requirements.

Why Epolin for Printing & Security?

• Spectral Selectivity – Precise absorption in UV, visible, and NIR regions
• Covert Capability – Minimal impact on visible appearance
• Ink & Coating Compatibility – Works with common security printing systems
• Low Loadings – Effective performance at low dye concentrations
• Batch Consistency – Reliable optical performance across production runs
• Design Support – Guidance for wavelength selection and implementation

-Development & Integration Support-

Epolin works with printers, ink formulators, converters, and brand owners to support secure printing and authentication projects by providing:

• Technical data and spectral guidance
• Assistance with optical feature design
• Unique dyes and formulations with exclusivity
• Support for prototyping and production scale-up

Final security performance depends on the complete system design and implementation.