Holographic images have
been in use to protect security documents since the beginning
of the 80's. They were first used to protect MasterCard
and VISA credit cards
The reasons for using holograms
and holographic products:
1. Security: Hologram
images are impossible to copy or imitate by traditional
printing equipment. Holograms
are easily recognisable by the end user. Additional
tricks like microtext, hidden images and
other security features make them a
unique optical security device.
2. Promotional effect: Holograms have
an attractive appearance and are eye-catching. There
is an advertising effect if a
name or a logo is
on the hologram. Holograms make the goods look more
luxury and expensive. Customers usually trust in products
with holograms.
3. Cost: When purchased in large quantities,
security holograms are a cost-effective method of adding an
overt authentication device to an item.
The first holographic company was established in USA and
later in Europe. For the last 10 years holography became
a powerful industry. Many new companies specialized in security
holography and packaging appear in America, Asia and Europe.
Nowadays security holography develops mainly in the following
directions:
1. High Security Applications (Banknote and Document
protection)
Banknotes, lottery tickets, retail vouchers, tax banderols,
personal documents (passports, visas, ID cards, driving licenses,
diplomas), vehicle registration, credit cards, phone cards,
cheques, transport and insurance documents, certificates
2. Brand Authentication and promotion
Alcohol and tobacco products, pharmacy, drugs, foods, fashion
wear, sport goods, spare parts, jewelry, watches, mobile
phones, electrical and electronic components, toys, audio
and video, software. |
