Plastic banknote technology

Plastic banknotes, also known as organic polymer banknotes, look like banknotes, but they are smoother, more wear-resistant, folding-resistant, non-absorbent, germ-free, difficult to counterfeit, and more convenient for recycling. Due to these characteristics, all countries in the world are researching and developing technologies in this area, and have gradually launched experimental commemorative banknotes. It is even forecasted abroad: By 2005, 30% of the world's banknotes will be organic polymer banknotes.

As we all know, any new banknote must meet three basic requirements:
1. Ordinary people can quickly identify authenticity;
2. It is hard to fake or imitate it;
3. It must be durable in circulation.

In 1968, the Federal Reserve Bank of Australia commissioned the Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) to study new banknote printing materials and anti-counterfeiting technologies based on these requirements. After a preliminary study of various natural fiber materials, the focus of the study turned to polymer materials (plastics). At the same time, according to the existing optical knowledge, it is recommended to use an OVD as a security measure for banknotes.

After extensive research, Australian banks and CSIRO organizations began implementing a "Plastic Currency Research and Development Program." During the development phase, the experimental banknotes were subjected to the utmost rigorous testing: resistance to breakage, tear resistance, degree of abrasion resistance, resistance to contamination (including contamination from broth to oil and beer), and weather changes To be buried in the earth, even to be washed in a household washing machine.

Experimental plastic banknotes soon proved to be practical and could also be mass-produced. On the 200th anniversary of the founding of Australia in 1988, this new technology was used to issue a commemorative banknote of $10 face value. The ticket was issued on January 27, 1988 and is the same size as the current banknote (155 x 77.5 mm). The current standard banknotes will continue to be issued.

Plastic commemorative banknotes have security features not found in several other Australian banknotes. The OVD (Light Change Pattern) is a portrait of Captain Cook and can be seen on both sides. It can refraction, and when the viewing angle or light source angle changes, it will produce a changing rainbow pattern. It is surrounded by transparency, which is a simple and important anti-counterfeiting measure.