Datalase to launch first kit and secures 5m funding

The colour-change ink specialist, which has so far concentrated on developing technologies rather than equipment, has produced a machine to apply its CaseMark tape directly onto secondary packaging, such as corrugated outers, on the final production line. This enables packagers to decide where they want to place variable information such as barcodes.

The CaseMark tape was unveiled last year as an alternative to the firm’s pre-print offering, where the CaseMark material is applied directly to the packaging substrate in the required mark area.

The chemistry in the CaseMark tape produces a colour change from white to black on exposure to a low-power CO2 laser. The tape does not have any backing paper, and does not require any inks, ribbons or consumables.

The chemistry is integrated in the tape material and uses a low-power laser, so it is possible to laser through the PP surface to effectively encase the image within the tape.

Datalase claims it is virtually impossible to remove this image. If the tape is pulled off the carton after imaging, the image is automatically transferred to the box, leaving a permanent image as evidence.

The Widnes-based firm refused to provide details of the cost or speed of the CaseMark tape applicator (pictured) before May.

Datalase has also secured £5m ($10m) of funding for expansion. The cash has come from MTI partners, Hotbed and BASF Venture Capital.

* In the April issue, Packaging News will be previewing new products on show at Total.

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