3M ushers in a new era of non-metallic foil credit/gift transaction cards

Monday, 16 November 2009 12:00 AM

Innovative multi-layer optical film for financial transaction cards to be introduced at Cartes 2009.

Bracknell, UK, 16 November 2009 - Diversified technology company 3M today unveiled new 3M Non-metallic Foil technology that can transform financial transaction cards, such as credit, ATM and gift cards. By utilising proprietary 3M Multi-layer Optical Film, the company makes it possible to create stylish financial transaction cards that contain no metal and can be uniquely designed with customised colours, graphics and logos to meet customers' needs, while maintaining functionality. The company plans to debut its Non-metallic Foil technology at Cartes 2009 in Paris, France, to financial transaction companies and credit card manufacturers as part of 3M's new Payment Component Business.

Building on more than seven decades of expertise in optical science, 3M's Multi-layer Optical Film is composed of hundreds of layers, combining the company's core technologies - film, adhesives and light management. 3M's one-of-a-kind Light Management technology was discovered in the 1990s while 3M scientists were researching improvements to increase tape durability. The team realised that they could create films with unique optical properties by combining layers with different refractive qualities - creating a non-metallic, mirror-like film that can be more than 90 per cent reflective. 3M's core Light Management technology emulates what nature has already perfected by reflecting light to create vivid colours without pigment, a phenomenon that can be seen in butterfly wings, cat's eyes and abalones. The technology can be used for a host of diverse applications, ranging from electronic devices displays to decorative products to energy-saving security window films.

"Our Non-Metallic Foil opens up a world of possibilities for financial institutions - making it possible to custom design credit and other financial transaction cards that literally fit the bill for their customers," noted Rich Lightsey, account development director for 3M Display and Graphics. "Leveraging our expertise in multi-layer film innovation and illustrating our prowess in optical science, we're able to work closely with financial institutions to enable a new generation of transaction cards with bold designs and style that appeal to consumers."

3M Non-Metallic Foil Technology

Using revolutionary Light Management technology, 3M's new Non-Metallic Foil gives transaction cards a mirror-like finish to create snazzy, colourful financial transaction and gift cards. This advanced technology is safe to use in contactless cards and offers full ATM functionality. Cards can change colours at an angle based on the background colour and are also translucent when coupled with 3M's infrared blocking technology.

3M Clear IR Technology

In addition, 3M offers Clear Infrared (IR) technology - a proprietary film that blocks infrared light. An IR light-blocking material is laminated between two layers of PVC and covers the entire card - allowing light to transmit through the card. This novel, see-through card and flexible production process opens the door for customers to create unique transparent designs and take advantage of modern printing techniques. Moreover, the innovative IR blocking technology prevents cards from jamming in ATMs.

In addition to 3M's financial transaction card solutions, the company offers a variety of technologies relevant to the financial transaction industry, including security materials, film technology, Radio Frequency Identification 'track and trace', adhesives and shielding.

The American Chemical Society has recognised 3M and its scientists for its pioneering Multi-Layer Optical Film with the ACS National Award for Creative Invention.

For more information about the technology visit www.3M.com/pcb or call 3M-HELPS.

Companies and media interested in seeing 3M's latest technology for transaction cards at Cartes 2009 should visit booth 4N 014.

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3M and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M

3M - practical and ingenious solutions that help our customers succeed

3M is a $25 billion diversified technology company which, since 1902, has been creating innovative products that help make the world healthier, safer and more productive. Well known 3M brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate and Scotch-Brite.

3M employs some 79,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. It produces thousands of innovative products for customers in dozens of diverse markets and its 45 technology platforms touch nearly every aspect of modern life - the company has applied its expertise in RFID technology to deliver biometric passports; it is using its understanding of the healthcare industry to provide hospitals with infection prevention and detection solutions; and in 2008 it launched the MPro range of pocket projectors.

The UK and Ireland is home to one of the largest 3M subsidiaries outside the USA, employing more than 3,500 people across 18 locations, including 12 manufacturing sites.

Products manufactured in the UK include coated abrasives, occupational health and environmental safety equipment, adhesive tapes, industrial microbiology products, drug delivery systems, high-performance coatings, secure documents and passport scanners.

www.3M.co.uk

Press contacts:

Lloyd Cole
3M United Kingdom Plc
Tel: + 44 (0) 1344 858 387
Email: Lloyd Cole

Beky Cann
Neesham Public Relations
Tel: +44 (0) 1296 628180
Email: Beky Cann

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