Toppan develops antiviral card

Toppan Printing, a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials and electronics solutions, has developed an antiviral card (patent pending) that responds to needs for enhanced hygiene in a wide range of settings.

The card is the first of its kind in Japan to receive certification from the Society of International sustaining growth for Antimicrobial Articles (SIAA). After establishing a mass production system, Toppan will supply antiviral cards for electronic money systems, employee ID cards and more, supporting hygienic cashless transactions and greater safety for personnel.

The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred demand for antiviral products that can be used in settings in which cards change hands, such as payments at cash registers and administrative processes at counters in public offices and medical institutions. Toppan has responded by establishing technology to add antiviral performance to plastic cards.

An antiviral agent reduces the presence of virus particles on the card surface by more than 99% over 24hr. As the agent is incorporated into the card material itself, antiviral performance is maintained even if the surface of the card is scratched or damaged.

Based on testing in line with the ISO 21702 international standard, the newly developed cards are the first in Japan to receive certification from the SIAA for their antiviral performance. Certification marks can be displayed on the cards in recognition of quality control in accordance with SIAA guidelines.

The antiviral cards can be employed for a wide range of applications. These include dual interface cards with both contact and contactless functions, such as smart credit cards enabled for contactless transactions. Toppan intends to market the cards for use by financial institutions, medical facilities, the food industry and an extensive range of other sectors in Japan and overseas.

"It is only natural that today people are looking for solutions that enhance safety and hygiene,” said Hiroshi Shimada, Business Development Manager in Toppan’s Secure Business Center. "These cards can help provide that by reducing the presence of viruses on surfaces, meaning that we can enjoy a greater level of peace of mind at work and in our daily lives. Toppan will continue to explore products that support consumers, businesses and economies as we adapt to the new normal.”