Electronic Paper May be the RFID Tag of the Future

Filed in archive Tags and Readers on August 24, 2005

For years I've been hearing about electronic paper and electronic books. It turns out the same electronic paper designed for books and newspapers may be used for RFID tags:

A prototype of electronic-paper could be the future for radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and for intelligent packaging, according to the company developing the technology.

UK-based Plastic Logic says it has developed a a paper-like material whose display properties change when a voltage is applied. The technology is being built to be used for electronic books, electronic maps and electronic newspapers. The technology can also be used for sensors, labels, RFID tags, intelligent packaging and disposable electronic gadgets.

A number of companies have been attempting to develop electronic "ink" and electronic flexible displays for years. Such technology has the potential to radically change the publishing, display, packaging, ink and label industries.

Electronic ink, when used in conjunction with flexible plastic display technology would have the ability to change according to imbedded instructions. For example a simple food label would be able to carry a wider variety of information than is currently available using the same-sized paper version. Readers would be able to scroll through information on an e-label.

Put this one under the category of future implementations, but one to watch closely. Read the whole article in Food Production Daily.