HoloNano

Purpose and goal

In order to protect brands and markets from counterfeit products, Rolling Optics label materials with unique 3D printing may be used as a seal of authenticity. The a base substrate in today´s product, is an oil-based plastic (polypropylene, BOPP). This project has been designed to investigate whether the substrate can be replaced by a renewable material made from cellulose nanofibres (CNF). The goals have been to produce CNF films of the same quality as today´s polymer film and to evaluate the films´ ability as substrates in the Rolling Optics manufacturing process.

Expected results and effects

CNF films with a thickness corresponding to the current product have been manufactured. The suitability of the films as a product component has been evaluated against film and print layer adhesion, the mechanical properties, and the optical conductor properties. The results from the current sample set shows, unfortunately, significant differences between today´s oil-based product with mechanical and optical properties that are not suited for a production scenario.

Planned approach and implementation

RISE Bioeconomy produced the CNF films. RollingOptics analyzed the printability. A more iterative procedure would, most likely have achieved a better result, ie a product with better optical properties. Thus, the characteristics of the films would have been adjusted after feedback from their performance during the printing. However, this was not possible within the project budget or limited time plan.