Counterfeit-resistant materials and a method and apparatus for authenticating materials

Patent · Fri Dec 31 23:00:00 EST 1999

OSTI ID:872902

Ramsey, J Michael ^[1]; Klatt, Leon N ^[2]

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1. Knoxville, TN
2. Oak Ridge, TN

Fluorescent dichroic fibers randomly incorporated within a media provide an improved method for authentication and counterfeiting protection. The dichroism is provided by an alignment of fluorescent molecules along the length of the fibers. The fluorescent fibers provide an authentication mechanism of varying levels of capability. The authentication signature depends on four parameters; the x,y position, the dichroism and the local environment. The availability of so many non-deterministic variables makes production of counterfeit articles (e.g., currency, credit cards, etc.) essentially impossible. Counterfeit-resistant articles, an apparatus for authenticating articles, and a process for forming counterfeit-resistant media are also provided.

• Research Organization: LOCKHEED MARTIN ENRGY SYST INC
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-84OR21400
• Assignee: Martin Marietta Energy Systems Inc. (Oak Ridge, TN)
• Patent Number(s): US 6035914
• OSTI ID: 872902
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

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