A new intelligent printing system could make it easier to identify counterfeit products using a smartphone. The technology combines materials that respond to temperature and light with a detection system powered by machine learning.

Described in a study published in the International Journal of Materials and Product Technology, the solution uses polymer microcapsules sensitive to temperature and light, incorporated into an ultraviolet (UV) ink developed for high-speed printing processes.

To improve the durability of the labels, researchers used nanotechnology-based components to strengthen the structure of the microcapsules, allowing them to remain stable even in hot and humid environments. The ink is water-based, contains no volatile organic solvents and can be applied through screen printing and inkjet printing.

Verification is carried out using a portable detector connected to a smartphone, which analyses how light interacts with the label. The collected data are then processed by a machine-learning algorithm capable of determining the authenticity and origin of the label.

In tests, the system achieved an accuracy of around 97.5% in identifying highly convincing imitations.

In addition to making verification easier for consumers and businesses, the technology was designed with large-scale production in mind. The microcapsules can be manufactured at room temperature, helping to reduce energy consumption and production costs.

According to the researchers, the solution could be applied to packaging across a range of sectors, providing a new tool in the fight against product counterfeiting.