A printable nano-based tag that can be invisibly embedded in packaging could provide a cost-effective tracking solution to the packaging sector, say researchers at Rice University, USA and Sunchon National University in Korea. The technology, which can be printed on paper and plastic, eliminates the need for an attached silicon chip device, reducing production costs. Leading researcher, Prof Cho explains: "Single wall carbon nanotube inks can be used both as conducting and semiconducting ink for print transistors for use in radio frequency identification tags (RFID). According to Cho, the tabs will be produced using a roll-to-roll gravure print process and be suitable for use in medical packaging, logos and labelling and have a read rate of 100-100 tags per second (depending on frequency rate, 13.56MHz 10cm-900MHz 1m).
