Marker tags are microscopic identifiers added to thermoplastics. They were originally developed for the explosives industry to track terrorist devices and have found applications in high-warranty-cost devices such as medical, electronics, automotive, and aerospace. Optical pigments and dyes can discreetly differentiate between two products. They appear the same under standard lighting, but one may change color under specific light wavelengths. Developer RTP Co., Winona, Minn. (rtp.com), will create an authentication compound for applications.

Authentication compounds can be formulated using a variety of thermoplastic polymers. They can enhance other innovative technologies, customizing a product's structural, conductive, wear resistant, flame retardant, or precolored properties. No one authentication technology can identify and prevent counterfeit products from reaching the marketplace, so a multi-faceted strategy may be appropriate. In addition, OEM quality assurance may require better traceability for conditions such as manufacturing location and raw materials.