CMYKIR security graphics separation in the infrared area

Graphic printing inks respond in different ways when they are in the wavelengths of a near infrared (IR) area. It is not possible to measure such response in the IR and describe it with parameters from the CIELab, sRGB or HSB color systems that are the base for color theory in the visible spectrum area. Additive RGB colors that we use to describe the image in our eye correspond with subtractive C₀M₀Y₀ printing inks used for nearly overall printing reproduction in the overall color visual spectrum. Adding of black color ink that has a good response in the infrared area, and subtracting CMY inks makes it possible to carry out each color tone in an endless number of ways. CMYK printing ink characteristics are the basis for setting the algorithm for double appearance of independent graphics: the first graphic in daylight and the second “IR graphic” in infrared light. Proposed algorithm creates a print X on the base of two pictures: the original one X₀ and mask F. The aim is documents’ ultimate security which is detected in IR area. Graphic element visibility with the help of instruments in the wavelength area from 700 to 1000 nm allows programming the selection of image information by using process inks only. The individual characteristics of those printing inks are used for introducing a new criteria in the RGB/CMYK separation process with the goal to create IR graphics. We call this separation CMYKIR and use it for planning the dosing of inks in the creation of good quality reproductions with incorporated IR characteristics: either for causing or prohibiting the IR effect. The goal of CMYKIR reproduction is to incorporate the set “IR graphic” that is not meant to be detected in the visible spectrum part.