Bioguard: A State-of-the-art Solution for Banknote Protection

Oberthur Fiduciaire’s Bioguard technology is adept at combating viruses, as well as bacteria and microscopic fungi. To date, the solution has been deployed to protect more than ten billion banknotes globally, and offers a valuable solution to enhancing public protection from the spread of dangerous pathogens, future pandemics, and relieve some of the post-Covid anxiety still present in many economies.

We live in a time dominated by digitisation, with the cash vs cashless debate in full swing, and central banks introducing new digital currencies and new ways of developing and protecting banknotes and cash in circulation. Innovation is at the heart of the industry, and the banknote printing sector thrives on it. The papers, printing techniques, inks, and especially the security features present on banknotes rely on technological advancements, and new dynamic solutions to new challenges. Indeed, the European Central Bank places real importance in the reduction of the carbon footprint of banknotes, which is another reason why printing companies remain so committed to research and development.

As one of the world’s largest high-security printing companies, the French company Oberthur Fiduciaire dedicates significant budgets to research and development. It relies on “the technological intensity of banknotes and the added value we bring through the dynamism of our innovation” to continue its development, as highlightedby its CEO, Thomas Savare.

The firm has developed a plethora of state-of-the-art security solutions for its banknotes that has helped it gain the trust of central banks around the world. But for Oberthur, innovation does not stop at security. Public health and anti-viral protection has also become a key component of the firm’s multilateral approach to banknote development. Its Bioguard solution is at the cutting-edge of banknote protection.

Innovative cash protection

Banknotes, often handled like many everyday objects, can indeed harbour pathogens. However, contrary to some claims, they are not primary vectors for disease transmission. Some scientific studies have shown that the risk of contamination from touching a banknote is no greater than from using a payment terminal keyboard or handling other common items like door handles, shopping carts, faucets, or light switches. The key is to ensure protection and, above all, to reassure users.

That is where Bioguard comes in. Initially introduced in 2004 as an additive to the substrate, the solution possesses anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It offers protection against the spread of bacteria and micro-fungi commonly found on banknotes, which are a significant cause of accelerated aging. Lab testing proved it was highly effective against the COVID-19 virus.

Thus, Bioguard significantly contributes to public health safekeeping by preventing the risks of contamination and propagation of diseases due to contaminated banknotes. The solution can be applied as a post-print varnish to protect existing banknotes or be directly integrated into the paper’s manufacturing.

Laboratory studies have demonstrated that this technology is safe for human health, as it does not cause irritation or sensitisation. The confidential formulaincorporates multiple active ingredients that work together to target various biochemical structures in germs, effectively destroying them or inhibiting their growth, all while being harmless to humans.

This innovative solution significantly reduces contamination risks in a sustainable manner. As long as the varnish remains on the banknote, it offers protection throughout the banknote’s life cycle, making it an invaluable tool for ensuring the safe handling of cash, a crucial element in the global economy.

Gaining trust around the world

Bioguard’s innovation is evident in its broad range of applications and its exceptional safety profile. The coating does not cause irritation or sensitisation upon contact and complies with the corresponding ISO norm . Its unique antiviral properties have already seen it gain the trust of a multitude of central banks around the world, including tropical climates like Fiji and Botswana. 

Many fiduciary firms are also accustomed to the solution, with over 10 billion banknotes already being treated around the world. These include Louisenthal in Germany, Crane in Sweden, FNMT in Spain, Portals in the UK, and VHP Security Paper in the Netherlands. “We have been very pleased with the reaction to the launch of Bioguard; we believe these [biocidal] properties will be as common a feature on banknotes as intaglio or watermarks within a few years,” said Thomas Savare. 

Oberthur’s ability to allocate significant funds to its R&D department is part of the reason it has been able to develop such effective solutions as Bioguard. The firm has put in place “an extremely efficient supply chain with little exposure to external factors,” according to  Etienne Couëlle, the firm’s General Manager. “Our daily objective is to further strengthen our supply chain and to constantly pursue innovations, particularly safety and security features. The success of our Bioguard treatment against COVID 19 has proven that innovation must remain at the heart of our business.”

The emergence of dangerous new pathogens in 2020 has highlighted the fragility of many economies and the need for better preparedness in the face of this growing threat of public health crises. It is essential to “prepare as best as possible,” according to Couëlle. The solution offers central banks an opportunity to better prepare for future health crises, which would of course avert the worst economic and social consequences.