A New Dimension in Ink Security from Gleitsmann

Gleitsmann Security Inks (GIS) used the Currency Conference to launch glairINK , a new suite of infrared (IR) inks for intaglio and offset printing that, the company says, sets a new standard in future machine-readable security features for banknotes.

Two years ago, GSI introduced mouveINK , which combines traditional UV colours/inks with a phosphorescent afterglow effect – the world’s first ‘traffic light’ for high security printing. According to the company, however, while mouveINK clearly offers banknote designers and central banks a new UV-light responsive feature, most banknotes today also include standard, well established and much talked-about, yet simple features detectable in the infrared (IR) spectrum.

Many issuers rely on a combination of IR-absorbing and IR-transparent inks as a Level 2 security feature which can be easily read by traditional banknote inspection modules in sorters, ATMs and other devices. But counterfeiters have succeeded in copying or imitating such features by using carbon black and other readily available chemical substances.

Hence the development of glairINK, in partnership with Inovink, which is available in three options comprising distinct IR signatures that can be verified across a wide range of the IR spectrum. Not only do the inks enable significant costs savings, says GSI, but they also allow designers to incorporate more vibrant colour shades in banknote designs without compromising security.

First is glairSTN (glair Standard), which enhances the availability of a wide variety of colour shades for IR visibility and IR-splits in intaglio and offset printing. glairSTN is compatible with existing detection infrastructure in ATMs and vending machines, so is a cost-effective option for issuers.

Second is glairADV (glair Advanced), which provides a unique IR signature, enabling high-speed banknote processing and enhanced security. glairADV features an IR visibility flip when viewed at different IR wavelengths below 1000nm. Despite its advanced IR signature, GSI says it still integrates smoothly with the current generation of banknote processing and other verification equipment.

And third is glairPRO (glair Professional), which is designed for the next generation of detectors. glairPRO is active beyond the standard near-infrared window, operating in the in the range of 1200nm and beyond, to exhibit complex IR absorption patterns in the NIR region only accessible to modern detection equipment. It can also be combined with glairADV in a single ink for maximised protection against counterfeiting. Its integration as a high-level hidden feature, with readability in the long wavelength InGaAs detection window, will ensure banknotes that feature it will remain secure for years to come, says GSI.

According to GSI, it prioritises energy efficiency, environmental integrity and sustainable development and, unlike other currently used inks, its glairINK technology utilises highly efficient materials that require low material loading levels while being safe for the environment. They are also non-hazardous and non-toxic (REACH registered), from a secure source, and have excellent lightfastness and chemical resistance properties.

‘Secure solutions for banknotes and identity documents have been the core competence of Gleitsmann Security Inks (GSI) for more than 175 years’, the company commented. ‘Our new suite of glairINK IR security inks offers outstanding protection against counterfeiting and fraud. Our customers can now choose the required level of security from the broad range of our IR security inks’.