Home Brandbuilding & Security Technologies & Innovations Hologram Stickers & Smart Labels

Hologram Stickers:
The Technology
& “Rainbow Effect”

To create a hologram sticker, first a hologram has to be made. There are different technologies, yet each method creates a relief nanostructure. Yes, holograms are not printed, but consist of a nano-sized structure relief or so-called diffraction grating. When looking at this grating in light, one sees the attractive “rainbow” effect: the grating diffracts the surrounding light into the spectral colors of the rainbow. Depending on your viewing angle, you will see different colors. Holograms are hard to create and serve as an ideal authentication feature, at the same time as their nice effects catch consumers attention.

Holographic & Smart Labels
3D AG’s Base Layer Collection

At 3D AG we master different nanofabrication technologies to manufacture holograms. In combination with selected add-ons, a customized smart label can be created. This gives us the flexibility to find the perfect solution for everybody in regard to volume, price and complexity.

Silver

The standardized solution allows a cost effective approach to implementing product digitalization

This standardized solution allows a cost effective approach to implementing product digitalization or authentication, as well as marketing strategies in a hologram sticker. The quick and simple execution is also perfect for first pilots and to gain experience.

Gold

This unique technology allows the creation of customizable designs. The approach is ideal for solutions that need frequent design changes (e.g. year or product variations).
All smart label features are combinable to implement modern marketing strategies, secure, protect and track your product all over the world.

Platinum

3D AG’s customizable holograms are implemented worldwide for product authentication and digitalization. High-end designs create powerful brand identity and can be leveled with banknote security. In combination with smart label features, this solution is your strongest tool to create brand trust, customer loyalty and engagement.

soorce3D Product Empowerment Platform:
Authentication, Digitalization and Customer Engagement

All of our base layers are soorce3D enabled: with a simple QR code they transform into a gateway that connects your clients to an immersive digital experience. The landing page is completely customizable through soorce3D, allowing you to tailor it precisely to your requirements. With soorce3D, achieving the perfect setup to cater to your unique needs is a breeze.

Combine your base layer with your choice of smart feature to create your customized solution!

Levels of Authenticity: Overt and Covert Security Features

When it comes to ensuring the authenticity of products and documents, two primary levels of security features come into play: overt and covert. Overt security features are easily visible and serve the so-called “naked eye”. They are often incorporated into the design of the item and can include holograms, unique patterns, or color-shifting inks that are easily recognizable by consumers and authentication professionals.

On the other hand, covert security features are hidden or concealed, requiring specialized tools or techniques to detect. These features are designed to be discreet and provide an additional layer of protection. Examples of covert security features include invisible inks, microprinting, ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) markings, or hidden watermarks that can only be revealed under specific lighting or with specific tools.

By combining overt and covert security features, brands and organizations can establish a multi-layered approach to authentication. This helps safeguard against counterfeiting attempts and ensures the integrity of the products or documents. The use of both overt and covert security features is essential in creating a comprehensive security system that provides visible deterrents while also offering hidden safeguards.

Security Features & Smart Label Features
Selection of Add-Ons for Holograms Stickers

The hologram type creates the base of your solution. Depending on your end goal and vision, security features and smart label add-ons can be specifically chosen and combined:

QR Codes

QR codes (short for Quick Response Code) is a machine readable code with instant access to the information hidden. The required data is extracted from patterns of black and white squares (e.g. URL, vcard, App, PDf, image, mail, plain text, serialised, or multi QR codes). Applications include product tracking, item identification, time tracking, document management, and general marketing.

DM Codes

A DM code (short for Data Matrix Code) is machine readable code with instant access to the information hidden. As more data is encoded in the symbol, the number of modules (rows and columns) increases. Data Matrix codes are used mostly for asset tracking, identification and data-driven applications, as they can store large amounts of data. A benefit is that they can be generated square or rectangular.

Black Print

The nanostructure creating the diffractive hologram effect is a relief. This relief nanostructure is embossed into label material, therefore creating the same image in each hologram label. With black ink, the single labels can be embellished in the form of codes, serial numbers or even simple logos.

Demetallization

3D AG developed a special process to demetallize holographic foil. This high-level security feature is not easily counterfeitable and elegantly embellishes the hologram. It is mostly used to serialize holograms, allowing the embossed foil to become variable and unique. The process can also be used to demetallize simple logos, graphics or text. The demetallized area become see-through, the color of the surface the holographic label is applied to will gently shine through the demetallized area.

Serialization

Serialization allows to make a holographic label unique, which is crucial for authentication. Unique identification is a high level security feature and the serial numbers can be managed through different types of databases. Serial numbers can be set up to be continuous (001, 002, 003,..), random (X754, 6D34, 87HU,…), as batch code (AA 001, AA 002, AA 003,…), or industry specific. Serial numbers can be printed with black ink or demetallized into the foil.

UV Print

Print visible only under UV light can be added as an additional security feature. Small elements, text or numbers can be printed onto the holograms. This covert feature is not visible by the naked eye and needs UV light as an authentication tool. Variable serial numbers can also be printed, depending on the utilization of the serialization.

Tamper Evidence

Security labels need to have a strong adherence to the applied surface. Not only adherence but the inability to remove and reapply the security element is very important. Tamper evidence is a crucial security feature and an absolute standard at 3D AG. When trying to remove the hologram from the applied surface it will destroy itself and release a void effect. This allows holograms to be used as a tamper proof feature and first opening guarantee.

Encapsulation

3D AG developed the special encapsulation GarmenTrust™ for the application of holograms onto textiles. The encapsulation protects the holograms and allows them to be sewed onto any type of textile. It protects from scratches and is flexible. The washable holographic label is skin friendly and can be used for different applications, from fashion and sport gear to functional clothes. Black ink print can be implemented into encapsulation material for sewing lines, instructions and logos. This special security solution brings product and brand protection.

NFC Chips

We specialize in integrating NFC chips into our labels to provide a superior experience for customers. The eye-catching effect of holograms in combination with NFC chips are a unique solution to enhance product security or provide a more convenient experience for your customers.