3M Ushers in a New Era of Non-Metallic Foil

Company to Introduce New Technology for Financial Transaction Cards That Offer Functionality with Style at Cartes 2009.

St. Paul, Minn.—3M Display and Graphics today unveiled new 3M Non-metallic Foil technology that can transform financial transaction cards, such as credit, ATM and gift cards, as we know them. Specifically, by utilizing proprietary 3M Multi-layer Optical Film, the company makes it possible to create stylish financial transaction cards that contain no metal and can be uniquely designed with custom colors, graphics and logos to meet customers’ needs, while maintaining functionality. The company plans to debut its Non-metallic Foil technology at Cartes 2009 in Paris, France, to financial transaction companies and credit card manufacturers as part of 3M’s new Payment Component Business.

Building upon more than seven decades of expertise in optical science, 3M’s Multi-layer Optical Film is composed of hundreds of layers, combining the company’s core technologies—film, adhesives and light management. 3M’s one-of-a-kind Light Management technology was discovered in the 1990s while 3M scientists were researching improvements to increase tape durability. The team realized that they could create films with unique optical properties by combining layers with different refractive qualities—creating a non-metallic, mirror-like film that can be more than 90 percent reflective. 3M’s core Light Management technology emulates what nature has already perfected by reflecting light to create vivid colors without pigment that can be seen in butterfly wings, cat’s eyes and abalone. The technology can be used for a host of diverse applications, ranging from electronic devices displays to decorative products to energy-saving security window films.

“Our Non-Metallic Foil opens up a world of possibilities for financial institutions—making it possible to custom design credit and other financial transaction cards that literally fit the bill for their customers,” noted Rich Lightsey, account development director for 3M Display and Graphics. “Leveraging our expertise in multi-layer film innovation and illustrating our prowess in optical science, we’re able to work closely with financial institutions to enable a new generation of transaction cards with bold designs and style that appeal to consumers.”

3M Non-Metallic Foil Technology - Using revolutionary Light Management technology, 3M’s new Non-Metallic Foil gives transaction cards a mirror-like finish to create snazzy, colorful credit cards. This advanced technology is safe to use in contactless cards and offers full ATM functionality. Cards can change colors at an angle based on the background color and are also translucent when coupled with 3M’s IR blocking technology.

3M Clear IR Technology - In addition, 3M’s offers Clear Infrared (IR) technology—a proprietary film that blocks infrared light. An IR light-blocking material is laminated between two layers of PVC and covers the entire card —allowing light to transmit through the card. This novel, see-through card and flexible production process opens the door for customers to create unique transparent designs and take advantage of modern printing techniques. Moreover, the innovative IR blocking technology prevents cards from jamming in ATMs.

In addition to 3M’s financial transaction card solutions, the company offers a variety of technologies relevant to the financial transaction industry including security materials, film technology, Radio Frequency Identification track/trace, adhesives and shielding.

The American Chemical Society has recognized 3M and its scientists for its pioneering Multi-Layer Optical Film with the ACS National Award for Creative Invention.

For more information about the technology visit http://www.3m.com/pcb or call 3M-HELPS.

Companies and media interested in seeing 3M’s latest technology for transaction cards at Cartes 2009 should visit booth # 4N 014.

About 3M - A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M's core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms - often in combination - to a wide array of customer needs. With $25 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000