Molecular Taggants for Dilution Detection, Brand, Protection, and Traceability
Microtrace’s Molecular Taggant™ systems use invisible markers to confirm authenticity, detect dilution, and analyze mix ratios without affecting product performance or appearance. These proprietary taggants can be integrated into paints, adhesives, lubricants, fuels, and other materials at trace levels as low as parts per trillion, enabling forensic-level authentication.
Depending on the application, taggants can provide either binary yes/no authentication or precise quantification. Select formulations are FDA compliant.
How It Works
Proprietary Molecular Taggants™ can be introduced at any stage of production and are designed for trace-level detection. Depending on requirements, they provide either simple presence/absence verification or precise quantification to identify dilution and confirm mix ratios.
Detection Methods
Mass Spectroscopy
Enables ultra-sensitive detection at trace levels using isotopically labeled markers. Advanced mass spectroscopy provides unmatched sensitivity down to parts per trillion, allowing precise dilution testing, mix ratio analysis, and forensic-grade security beyond the reach of standard techniques.
Hyperspectral Imaging
Delivers fast, noninvasive authentication from a distance, even when taggant location is unknown. Sophisticated algorithms analyze multiple spectral signatures simultaneously, enabling real-time detection on production lines, in warehouses, or on store shelves.
Raman Spectroscopy
Provides rapid, nondestructive field authentication using handheld tools. Raman-active and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) taggants support both binary and quantitative verification, enabling in-field analysis without disrupting product integrity.
Applications
Molecular Taggants™ are effective for:
- Authenticating bulk materials
- Detecting counterfeit or substituted content
- Verifying dilution and blend ratios
- Investigating false liability or warranty claims
- Enabling forensic traceability in regulated or high-risk environments
Integration
Molecular Taggants™ are compatible with a wide range of materials and can be formulated for:
- Paints and coatings
- Adhesives and sealants
- Lubricants and fuels
- Food contact compliant products (select taggants)
