SICPA Supports Mine-to-Market Visibility

SICPA leveraged its security ink and traceability expertise to launch BullionProtect® in 2020, designed to prevent counterfeit gold bars being mistaken for genuine ones. Jointly developed with refiner and coating specialist Metalor Technologies, in line with LBMA (London Bullion Market Association) guidance, the integrated solution comprises a security image applied directly to the bar and bespoke validation devices.

The security image is based on SICPA’s OASIS®, an ink comprising liquid crystal pigments which produce a colourchanging design effect when viewed under a polarising filter. The ink adds negligible weight to the bar. Verification can be made in seconds, with a credit sized validator with two polarising lenses; under one the design turns green and under the other the pattern brightens. A unique QR code is also embedded in the image, readable by any smartphone.

More recently, last month SICPA announced a partnership with Commstack, a provider of next-generation digital infrastructure for commodity traceability and responsible trade, for a strategic joint venture to enhance transparency and accountability across the mining supply chain. The joint venture will initially focus on gold and other high value commodities.