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August 8, 2014

Combating counterfeiters could soon be as easy as breathing

by John_A

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed an iridescent material that reveals hidden words or images in the right setting. What exactly causes the message to show? A single breath. That’s right, breathing on the plastic sheets makes whatever has been inscribed on it visible — thanks to a little instant humidity — but otherwise hidden from view. Images are created using a custom ink-jet printer to output a water-repellant coating in the desired shape. When breathed on, water condenses to show the image — similar to the manner in which a peacock’s feathers lose their glimmer when they’re wet. The group aims for the material to be used to combat counterfeiters, replacing holograms on passports and more.

Filed under: Science, Alt

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Via: Wired

Source: Advanced Materials

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