Pyrene-naphthalimide Schiff base as a fluorescent pigment in water-based security ink

Abstract

Fluorescence-based materials that are affordable and easy to use for commercial anti-counterfeiting applications are in high demand. While exploring new fluorescent pigments, a pyrene-naphthalimide Schiff base, 5-hydroxy-2-((pyren-1-ylmethylene)amino)-1H-benzo[de]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione (NHPY) with yellow fluorescence under UV light was synthesized. An eco-friendly flexographic ink prepared with NHPY as the pigment was coated on a UV dull paper and further printed on security paper as well as packaging papers and boards. When exposed to UV light, the printed samples showed yellow fluorescence. The light fastness, gloss, colorimetric results, and abrasion resistance of the printed samples proved that NHPY is a suitable fluorescent pigment for security printing applications.