Holograms and authentication: meeting future demands

Ian M. Lancaster

doi:10.1117/12.540738

29 June 2004 Holograms and authentication: meeting future demands

Ian M. Lancaster

Proceedings Volume 5290, Practical Holography XVIII: Materials and Applications; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.540738
Event: Electronic Imaging 2004, 2004, San Jose, California, United States

Abstract

The use of holograms as authentication or security devices is the most valuable application of holograms yet devised. In 20 years, this has developed from the first use of a hologram on credit cards, to the situation today where governments turn to holograms as a key security feature on the protected documents they issue, including banknotes, identity documents and tax banderols. At the same time, holograms (and related devices) are the most recognised visible feature used to authenticate and protect branded and OEM products; this sector covers the gamut from CD jewel-box seals to the protection of safety-related items such as medicines and vehicle replacement parts. There has been creative synergy between the commercial suppliers of such holograms and the practical holography community. But new technologies are coming forward to challenge the role of holograms, a challenge that is aided by the counterfeiting of security holograms. What are the characteristics of those technologies and can holograms provide similar resources to users? Examples of collaboration between hologram producers and producers of other technologies to create combination devices suggest a possible route forward for holography to maintain its role in authentication and security. By scrutinising and adapting to needs, often by combination with other techniques, holographers may be able to retain their role in this important application.

Citation Download Citation

Ian M. Lancaster "Holograms and authentication: meeting future demands", Proc. SPIE 5290, Practical Holography XVIII: Materials and Applications, (29 June 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.540738

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