Abstract: A latent or “invisible ink” security marking formulation is provided using a phosphor with distinct emissions characteristics including visible emission due to excitation at a particular invisible wavelength. An insoluble inorganic phosphor with this or a similarly distinct emission characteristic is milled to a small particle size, preferably less than one micron particle diameter, and is combined with a carrier at very low pigment concentration, for example one percent by weight of the ink formulation. Preferably the pigment is cropped to resin particles in a binder. This ink formulation is diluted by a volatile solvent and applied using a conventional inkjet printer of the type used to mark codes on packages and labels. To test for security purposes the printing is irradiated and a response according to the predetermined characteristic is noted (or not noted) to detect security information.

Abstract: In the method for associating source information with a substrate, which includes providing at least one latent marking agent that emits a signal at an emission wavelength in response to being irradiated with infrared radiation at an excitation wavelength, wherein the signal is at least a portion of the source information; and affixing the at least one latent marking agent to the substrate, a process for providing an ink with a viscosity for effective printing of the source information on the substrate. The at least one latent marking agent includes an inorganic pigment. In some embodiments of the method, the latent marking agent must be exposed to ultraviolet radiation before it can emit a signal in response to infrared irradiation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an aqueous latent image printing method which includes applying to a substrate, such as paper, a latent image ink composition, via an ink jet printer. The latent image is then activated to render it visible, by application of an activator.

Abstract: A method for associating source information with a substrate includes providing at least one latent marking agent that emits a signal at an emission wavelength in response to being irradiated with infrared radiation at an excitation wavelength, wherein the signal is at least a portion of the source information; and affixing the at least one latent marking agent to the substrate. The at least one latent marking agent includes an inorganic pigment. In some embodiments of the method, the latent marking agent must be exposed to ultraviolet radiation before it can emit a signal in response to infrared irradiation.