Research and development of a national standard (TCVN) for high-tech biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) substrate and its practical application at Q&T Polymer High-Tech Co., Ltd

Abstract

Polymer substrates based on biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film are widely used in high-end printing applications, particularly in security printing. However, existing international and foreign standards mainly apply to single-layer BOPP film used for packaging and do not cover multilayer polymer substrates incorporating functional coatings. Based on an analysis of existing standards, a survey of practical requirements at organisations and enterprises using the products, and inter-laboratory test results, the research team developed the national standard TCVN 13986:2024, comprising two parts: technical requirements and test methods. The standard specifies 20 indicators in three groups: mechanical properties; surface and optical properties; and coating durability and functional performance, providing a comprehensive framework for evaluating polymer substrates used in security printing. Application of the standard at Q&T Polymer High Technology Co., Ltd. demonstrated that the PolySecure® material fully satisfies all the requirements of TCVN 13986:2024. The material has been used to print approximately 1.85 billion banknote impressions, meeting all technical requirements, contributing savings of approximately 100 billion VND during 2024-2025, and promoting technological selfreliance in the domestic production of security materials.