Articles containing non-visible identifying marks formed from carbon nanomaterials and methods utilizing the same

摘要

Identifying marks are often used for authentication and tracking purposes with various types of articles, but the marks themselves can sometimes be subject to replication or removal by an outside entity, such as a person or group having malicious intent. This can make it easier for an outside entity to produce a counterfeit article or to sell a stolen article. Carbon nanotubes and other carbon nanomaterials can be used to form identifying marks that are not visible to the naked eye, thereby making the marks more difficult for an outside entity to tamper with. Various articles can include an identifying mark that is localized and not visible to the naked eye, the identifying mark being electrically conductive and containing a carbon nanomaterial. By electrically interrogating the article, such as through spatially measuring eddy currents about the article, the marks can be located and authenticated.

主权项

1. An article comprising:
a matrix; and a subsurface identifying mark that is configured for indirect electrical interrogation, is localized within the matrix and is not visible to a naked eye, the subsurface identifying mark being electrically conductive and comprising a carbon nanomaterial.