New Thermochromic Developments

SICPA is pleased to announce development of a new thermochromic ink system representing a significant safety and health improvement over previous thermochromic systems reliant upon formaldehyde chemistry. The new thermochromic system is safer for SICPA employee handling, as well as for our valued printer customers handling the finished inks. 

Under the new OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) 2012 (becoming effective for mixtures on June 1, 2015), traditional thermochromic ink systems relying on formaldehyde-based chemistry would be classified as a carcinogen. The new system offered by SICPA eliminates formaldehyde to a level below that of a carcinogen classification for both the handling by our employees and our customers. SICPA has a long history of providing exceptional security products that exceed market demands while maintaining compliance with our internal Health and Safety criteria. This new system balances the need for security features while eliminating a health classification that is not consistent with our stated vision.

To transition to a safer, improved thermochromic product line, SICPA diligently tested various raw materials and completed on-press field testing of the new formulations in real time production. We have found this new system is not only safer, but it also performs better on press.

Five standard colors for the new thermochromics are currently available: magenta, vermilion, pink, blue and gray. Two custom colors are also available—purple- and green-to-yellow. Continued development will allow for further additions to the custom list.