Scientists have embedded radio chips in paper



    A group of researchers from the University of North Dakota has developed a way to embed RFID chips in paper, writes Mashable. Such paper can potentially be used for legal documents, tickets, labels and banknotes. Researchers say technology will help prevent fraud and tampering.

    Although RFID paper already exists, other versions on the market rely on thick chips, resulting in very bulky paper that cannot be printed on. However, North Dakota researchers have developed the Laser Enabled Advanced Packaging process, which results in ultra-thin silicon chips that can easily be embedded in paper.

    The process uses a plasma engraver to reduce the thickness of the chips, and then a pulsed laser beam to insert the chips, as well as the antennas, directly into the paper.

    According to project manager Val Marinov, the process is cheaper than current production methods because less materials and cheaper equipment are used. In addition, this process is twice as fast as other methods.

    “About ten years ago, the Bank of Japan and the European Bank spoke about their intention to develop such a technology, but did not do it,” says Marinov. "I believe that our scheme is the first to demonstrate a functional RFID tag embedded in paper."

    Marinov and his team recently presented their work at a conference of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers in Orlando, Florida, and are now looking for commercial investors. According to Marinov, "technology needs to leave the laboratory and find its place in the industry."

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