DataLase to produce barcodes for pharmaceutical packaging

OCTOBER 22, 2007--DataLase (Widnes, UK), originator of the DataLase process, is working with Domino AmJet to print lot and expiration codes onto pharmaceutical cartons and labels. Domino is using DataLase PACKMARK to mass customize information to primary packaging materials.

Domino offers total coding and marking solutions in a variety of markets including the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. For this particular application, Domino has worked with DataLase to enable customized information such as lot codes and barcodes to be printed onto pharmaceutical packaging.

The pharmaceutical customer traditionally uses a hot-stamp printer to code its primary packaging. However, this method causes the label to "crimp," thus preventing the label from running smoothly through the applicator and causing a jam. Using hot-stamp printing also requires the use of ribbons, therefore making the process costly and time-consuming.

By incorporating the DataLase PACKMARK solution into the production line the customer has been able to overcome many of the problems caused by traditional coding and marking techniques. For this application a DSL 25-W Domino CO₂ laser was used to produce a positive black image on a white background without ablation. The area to be marked is coated with DataLase PACKMARK, and the laser then creates a color change in the coating. This is a much simpler, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly technology than traditional coding and marking techniques such as hot-stamp printing.

For more information about the DataLase process visit www.datalase.com.