Laser marking solutions for augmented QR codes | 11-11-2026 |
Sun Chemical has developed specialist laser ablation coatings to be used as inter-layer or even UV flexo-enhanced laser marking inks which are enabling up to 20% faster marking line speed, as demonstrated in third party laser integrator testing, it claims.
Some brand owners and retailers are already considering integrating smart features via QR codes, which require late stage marking such as batch numbers or ingredients for changing formulas.
One late stage marking of alphanumeric code seeing the fastest growth, is laser marking, which is proving popular due to the accessibility of the necessary equipment, the relatively low levels of maintenance required, and the absence of consumables to be managed on packing lines, says the company.
Two options for laser marking are available: the most used is ablation, and the more niche is reactive coating. Ablation can mark directly on the substrate or remove the surface ink layer to discover a contrast layer, be it another ink layer or the substrate itself. Reactive coating changes colour via the energy of the laser. In most cases, laser ablation works without any special treatment, but historically, only a small amount of marking was done this way, such as a batch numbers or best before dates. Moving to QR codes requires much more definition, whilst also retaining packaging line speed.
Augmented late-stage QR codes will only gain traction if this speed can be maintained at a reasonable level. To help deliver this, Sun Chemical has developed specialist laser ablation coatings.
In partnership with a printing company and a laser integrator, Sun Chemical was also able to showcase at interpack 2026 a major improvement in print quality vs a standard label on filmic substrate.
Ultimately, QR codes will not be an additional code added to packaging – the aim is for them to replace barcodes altogether, such as the GS1 Sunrise 2027 project, to which many large retailers have already committed significant investment. Some retailers, those with large ranges of own brand products, have already taken the step and are solely using QR codes.
This solution is designed to ensure compliance with the latest regulations on consumer information, traceability, and the GS1 Digital Link standards. Implementing such late-stage laser marking requires multi-company close coordination, including end user, laser integrator, printer converter and coatings and inks supplier, so it is ready for commercial use.
