WO2017055272A1

WO2017055272A1 - Pressurized container for use in security marking

Info

Publication number: WO2017055272A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/072982
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Guterstam; Jason Brown
Original assignee: Selectamark Security Systems Plc
Priority date: 2015-09-28
Filing date: 2016-09-27
Publication date: 2017-04-06
Also published as: GB2542779A; GB201517120D0; GB2542779B

Abstract

Provided is a pressurized container housing a security marking composition, wherein the container is formed from a plastic or elastic material such that it is capable of rupturing when subjected to an external pressure above the pressure within the container, thereby expelling the security marking composition, and wherein the security marking composition comprises a security marker, and a carrier or additive which facilitates the use of the composition in security marking. The pressurized container is suitable for mounting within an ATM machine and ruptures when the ATM is machine is tampered with.

Description

pressurized container for use in security marking

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to pressurized containers housing a security marking composition for mounting within ATM machines and for the security marking of people who tamper with ATM machines. The invention also relates to the use of the pressurized containers in an ATM machine for marking people who tamper with the ATM machine. The invention additionally relates to methods of detecting such compositions on a person, and analysing the compositions to determine their origin and/or information about the owner of the pressurized containers comprising the compositions.

Background of the invention

Cash machines or automated teller machines (ATM machines) are a common device in the community today and are widely used for withdrawing cash from the bank or credit account for each user. The bank systems rely on people using this as their preferred method of withdrawing cash rather than visiting the bank office and standing in waiting lines.

However, tampering of ATM machines and subsequent theft is a common problem. To gain access to the cash stored within cassettes in an ATM machine, perpetrators often pump a flammable gas (e.g. acetylene) into the ATM from the cash dispenser. Following ignition, the gas explodes and forces open the door at the back of the ATM machine, allowing the perpetrator access to the cassettes containing stored cash. This type of criminal activity can be very dangerous to the public.

Whilst CCTV footage may aid in identifying the perpetrators of gas attacks on ATM machines, perpetrators often avoid attempt to hide their identity by wearing masks etc. It would therefore be desirable to provide a more effective way of identifying perpetrators after a gas attack of ATM machines. Synthetic nucleotide containing compositions for use in security marking of property and/or for marking a thief or attacker are known in the art. Indeed, the present applicant has already developed and marketed several products containing such compositions. Some examples of the present applicant's products which utilize such compositions are discussed below.

The SelectaDNA^R™ property marking kit comprises a pot of adhesive which can be applied to property using an applicator in order to mark the property with a unique composition which can be traced back to the owner in the event of the property being stolen by a thief and then retrieved by the police. Each pot of adhesive contains a unique DNA composition and also several thousand microdots dispersed throughout the adhesive. Each microdot contains a unique registration code and a database telephone number or internet address. A database is maintained by a service provider linking each unique registration code to details of the owner of the property, e.g. name, address and/or telephone number of the owner. These details may be obtained when an owner of the property purchases the property marking kit and entered into the database. This database, or a second database, also contains information about the unique DNA composition which is either linked to the registration code or directly to the owner's details. The adhesive also contains a fluorescent material which emits visible light under UV light in order to allow the adhesive marking on the property to be readily located by the police.

The aforementioned kit provides two possible methods for tracing the owner of stolen property, via the microdots or via the unique DNA composition. However, for some applications it may not be appropriate to provide microdots in a security marking composition. For example, it may not be appropriate to provide microdots in compositions which are to be expelled as an aerosol to mark a thief or attacker as such microdots may block the dispensing nozzle and/or be readily washed off.

Such is the case for the present applicant's DNA personal alarm which does not use microdots. This product comprises a hand-held personal alarm in the form of a pressurized container housing a composition which comprises a unique DNA composition and a fluorescent material of the kind used in the previously described property marking kit. As described in relation to the property marking kit, a database is maintained by a service provider linking information about each unique DNA composition to details of the owners of the personal alarms. I an owner is attacked they can spray their attacker using the personal alarm. Subsequently, if apprehended, a UV lamp can be utilized to locate the DNA composition on the attacker. A small sample of the composition can be removed and sent to a laboratory for analysis to obtain information about the unique DNA composition. This information can then be used to identify the owner of the personal alarm using the database. As such, the attacker can be unarguably linked to the attack on the owner of the personal alarm, any stolen property can be returned, and the information used to secure a conviction.

Yet another use of synthetic DNA containing compositions is in building security system, particularly at entry points such as doors and windows. A building security system which dispenses a fluid for deterring and/or identifying an intruder is described in the present applicant's own earlier patent application, WO 2009/1 12507. In this earlier application it is described that a particularly useful formulation comprises a DNA marker/identifier, a UV tracer/ luorescent material, a propellant, and optionally a solvent which may be organic, e.g. an alcohol, or aqueous. As with the aforementioned property marking kit and personal alarm, a database is maintained by a service provider linking in ormation about each unique DNA composition to details of the owners of the security system. If a building is broken into by a burglar, the security system sprays the intruder with the DNA composition. Subsequently, if apprehended, a UV lamp can be utilized to locate the DNA composition on the intruder. A small sample of the composition can be removed and sent to a laboratory for analysis to obtain information about the unique DNA composition. This information can then be used to identify the owner of the building using the database. As such, the intruder can be unarguably linked to the burglary such that any stolen property can be returned and the information used to secure a conviction.

The synthetic DNA compositions used in these products were not originally optimized for the security markin applications described. The present applicant developed improved DNA tags for use in security marking, as described in WO 2010/122159. Further improvements, for example in delivery mechanisms have also been made by the present applicant, such as described in WO 2013/171279. Despite these improvements in security tagging technology, these systems are not particularly suited to marking perpetrators who attack ATM machines. In particular, the systems described above would not allow effective dispersal of the security marking composition over a wide area. Dispersal over a wide area is necessary to ensure that both the perpetrator(s) who may be standing at a distance from the ATM machine, and the ATM machine itself, become marked with the composition in the event of tampering. Subsequent contact of the ATM machine with the perpetrator would then allow a further transfer of the security marking composition from the ATM machine to the perpetrator, ensuring effective marking of the perpetrator. Furthermore, the sensor/delivery systems described above would not be able to distinguish between a normal user of the machine and a perpetrator.

Methods of marking bank notes in cassettes in ATM machines are also known. GB 2 390 055 B discloses a marking system adapted to fit an ATM cassette. The system comprises a canister containing pressurized gas which is connected to an actuator and detector, and a further reservoir comprising ink and marker DNA. When the cassette is tampered with, the detector sends a signal to the actuator to release the contents of the canister such that the pressurized gas forces itself into the reservoir comprising ink and marker DNA. This in turn raises the pressure inside the reservoir promoting release of the ink and marker DNA through an outlet pipe, such that the bank notes become labelled with the ink and marker DNA.

However, the presence of multiple components (e.g. detector, actuator and outlet pipe) renders this system expensive to manufacture. Additionally, this system would not be suitable for the widespread dispersal of the ink/DNA marker. Furthermore, this system requires the perpetrator to have already obtained the cassette from the ATM machine in order for the security marking to take effect.

It is an aim of the present invention to solve the problems associated with the known systems described above. In particular, it is an aim of the present invention to provide security marking compositions suitable for use in an ATM machine which can be used to mark and identify perpetrators who tamper with the machine. It is a further aim to provide methods of analysing the composition to determine the origin of the composition and/or information on the ATM machine that has been attacked. Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a pressurized container housing a security marking composition, wherein the container is formed from a plastic or elastic material such that it is capable of rupturing when subjected to an external pressure above the pressure within the container, thereby expelling the security marking composition, and wherein the security marking composition comprises a security marker, and a carrier or additive, which facilitates the use of the composition in security marking.

Pressurized container

By "pressurized", it is meant that the pressure within the container is maintained at a higher level than the ambient pressure (i.e. outside the container). The container itself is not especially limited provided that it can be pressurized, and may comprise any container capable of housing the security marking composition such as a bag, pouch, packet or vial. The container may be flexible and/or distensible.

The material used to form or manufacture the pressurized container is not especially limited provided it can be deformed, and provided it can rupture in response to an increase in external pressure, and in particular, in response to the increase in external pressure that would occur with tampering of the ATM machine as defined herein. In preferred embodiments, the pressurized container is formed from a plastic or elastic material. Plastic or elastic materials are deformable. It is desirable that the material is also inert such that it does not react with the security marking composition, and in particular, with the security marker. It is also desirable that the material does not lose its integrity with normal fluctuations in temperature that may occur within an ATM machine, and that the pressurized container is impervious to moisture, gases and microorganisms so that the internal pressure can be maintained and the security marking composition can remain in its original, uncontaminated form. The particular material used must enable the pressurized container to rupture under conditions that would be expected to occur during ATM tampering as described above. The material used to form or manufacture the pressurized container may comprise a theraiosetting or a thermoplastic polymer. Themiosetting polymers solidify or set irreversibly when heated and cannot be re-moulded. Thermosetting polymers have the advantage that they are strong and durable. However, if using a thermosetting polymer, the strength and durability should be such that the pressurized container is still capable of deformation, and in particular, capable of rupturing under conditions that would be expected to occur during ATM tampering, as described above. Thermoplastic polymers soften upon exposure to heat and return to their original condition at room temperature. This allows thermoplastics to be easily shaped and moulded as required for insertion into ATM machines.

Preferred polymers used to manufacture the pressurized container include, without limitation, polyethylene, polypropylene, polymethylpentene, polyvinylidene, polybutene-1 , polybutylene, polyester (e.g. polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate and polyethylene naphthalate), poly vinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene, polyamide, ethylvinyl alcohol, cellulose and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the container is composed of polyethylene terephthalate, aluminium, nylon (polyamide) and polyethylene. This combination of materials has been found to be strong and durable, whilst effectively rupturing under conditions that would be expected to occur during ATM tampering, as described herein.

Polymeric (plastic) materials used to form the pressurized containers may be manufactured either as a single film or as a combination of more than one polymeric material. Methods of manufacturing pressurized containers comprising polymeric materials defined herein would be known to a person skilled in the art of packaging manufacture. By way of example, the polymeric materials may be combined by lamination or co-extrusion. Thus in some embodiments, the pressurized container of the present invention may comprise or be composed of a laminated material or a co-extruded material.

Lamination involves the bonding together of two or more polymeric films or bonding a polymeric film to another material such as paper or aluminium. A pressurized container formed of a laminated material may increase the barrier properties and/or mechanical strength of the pressurized container. Specific non-limiting examples of laminated films include polyvinylidene chloride coated polypropylene, polyvinylidene chloride coated polypropylene-polyethylene, cellulose-polyethylene-cellulose, and metallised (e.g. aluminium) polyester-polyethylene. During co-extrusion, two or more layers of molten polymeric films are combined during manufacture. The process of co-extrusion naturally requires materials that have appropriate thermal characteristics.

The pressure within the pressurized container is typically higher than atmospheric pressure (i.e. about 100 kPa). To achieve a higher than atmospheric pressure, the pressurized container may be filled with air and/or gas, and then sealed. In preferred embodiments, the pressurized container is inflated. The pressure within the container is typically from about 100 kPa or about 200 kPa to about 1000 kPa, or from about 200 kPa to about 800 kPa. In preferred embodiments, the pressure within the container is from about 200 kPa to about 600 kPa, or from about 200 kPa to about 500 kPa, or from about 200 kPa to about 400 kPa or from about 200 kPa to about 300 kPa. In other embodiments, the pressure within the container is from about 300 kPa to about 600 kPa, or from about 300 kPa to about 500 kPa, or from about 300 kPa to about 400 kPa.

By raising the internal pressure of the pressurized container, the material of the pressurized container is placed under stress and/or strain and therefore, weakened. By using plastic or elastic material to form the container, at high pressure there will be a deformation of the material contributing to the stress and/or strain, and consequent weakness. In specific embodiments, the pressurized container is distended or inflated such that the material used to form the pressurized container is under additional stress and/or strain. The weakening of the pressurized container renders the pressurized container material more susceptible to losing its integrity and to rupturing on application of an external pressure which is greater than the internal pressure of the container. An appropriate analogy would be that of an inflated balloon: a heavily inflated balloon is more susceptible to bursting (or rupturing) on application of an external pressure than a balloon which is only partially inflated since the material of a heavily inflated balloon is under more stress and/or strain. A pressurized container having raised pressure as described is preferably mounted within an ATM machine. If the ATM machine is subsequently tampered with by a perpetrator who deposits and ignites a flammable gas in the machine, the force of the resulting explosion would result in an increase in external pressure surrounding the pressurized container. Due to the already raised pressure within the pressurized container and the consequent weakening of the plastic or elastic material of the pressurized container, the pressurized container will rupture, expelling the security marking composition, and allowing the composition to dissipate around the area of the ATM machine, covering both the ATM machine and the perpetrator. On subsequent contact with the ATM machine, there may be a further transfer of the security marking composition from the machine to the perpetrator, enhancing the marking process. Thus the raised internal pressure serves to increase the susceptibility of the container to rupture when there is an increase in external pressure, and further maximizes the dissipation of the security marking composition to ensure effective covering of both the ATM machine and the perpetrator.

In preferred embodiments, the pressurized container comprises at least one region of weakness. In the region of weakness, the material of the pressurized container has increased mechanical and/or chemical weakness relative to areas outside the region of weakness. The increased weakness may arise from increased strain and/or stress on the material. When subjected to an increase in external pressure (for example, the increase in pressure that would arise from a gas explosion), the pressurized container will rupture preferentially in the region of weakness.

The at least on region of weakness may be introduced into the pressurized container by numerous mechanisms known to a person skilled in the art of packaging. For example, a region of weakness may be introduced by using a lower concentration of adhesive between layers in a laminated composition, by introducing a seam into the pressurized container, and/or by introducing a crease or a fold into the pressurized container.

In preferred embodiments, the pressurized container has an opening through which the air/gas and security marking composition may be deposited within the container. The opening may be provided by an aperture within the container itself or by means of an attachment (e.g. tubing and the like) to an aperture within the container. In preferred embodiments, the opening is sealable such that after the security marking composition is placed in the container and the container is pressurized, the opening can be sealed to prevent any leakage of the composition and gas, and to prevent any contamination of the security marking composition. The opening may be sealed by a cap, screw, lid or the like. Alternatively, the pressurized container may be heat-sealed.

Security marker

The security marker in the compositions of the present invention is not especially limited, providing it is capable of uniquely marking the perpetrator. Any security marker may thus be employed, provided that it remains intact and detectable once on the perpetrator. Examples of such markers include standard markers used in security marking, such as UV, IR and light activated luminescent compounds, or electromagnetically active identifiers such as lanthanides. For example, blue UV-activated dye may typically be employed. Peptides may also be emplyed as security markers.

A further such security marker may comprise nucleic acid. The nucleic acid may comprise DNA and/or RNA. DNA is preferred as it is more resistant to hydrolysis. Typically, the nucleic acid is provided as one or more nucleotide oligomers. The nucleotide oligomers may be single stranded or double stranded. Single stranded nucleotide oligomers are preferred according to some applications because they are cheaper to manufacture. However, while double-stranded oligomers are more expensive to manufacture, they do have the advantageous feature that they may be more stable than single stranded oligomers. The nucleic acid preferably comprises at least one identifier sequence which is relatable to the owner of the composition, using a database. The database contains information on the owner of the composition (e.g. the bank) and connects this information to the identifier sequence(s). Thus the information on the owner can be obtained from identification of the identifier sequence(s) in the composition. Methods for employing DNA in the present invention will be described by way of example herein, but it will be apparent that the other nucleic acid markers described herein may alternatively (or additionally) be employed as required.

Typically, when the security marker employs DNA, it comprises: a plurality of identical first synthetic nucleotide oligomers; and a plurality of identical second synthetic nucleotide oligomers which are different to the first synthetic nucleotide oligomers, wherein each of the first synthetic nucleotide oligomers comprises a first primer bindin sequence of bases, a first identifier sequence of three to seven bases in length, and a second primer binding sequence of bases, the first identifier sequence being disposed between the first and second primer binding sequences, wherein each of the second synthetic nucleotide oligomers comprises a third primer binding sequence of bases, a second identifier sequence of three to seven bases in length, and a fourth primer binding sequence of bases, the second identifier sequence being disposed between the third and fourth primer binding sequences, and wherein the first identifier sequence is different to the second identifier sequence.

The oligomers are constructed so that they can easily be related to the owner of the composition, using a database. Thus the first and second identifier sequences are relatable to the owner of the composition via a database. The database contains information on the owner of the composition and connects this information to the first and second identifier sequences. Thus the information on the owner can be obtained from identification of the first and second identifier sequences in the composition.

Carriers and additives

The security marking compositions provided in the pressurized containers of the present invention further comprise a carrier or additive which facilitates or enables use of the compositions in security marking. In preferred embodiments, to facilitate or enable the use of the composition in security marking, the carrier or additive may increase the visibility of the composition such that it can be detected once the pressurized container has ruptured and the composition has been transferred to a person, and/or increase the adhesiveness of the composition such that it may be transferred to a person, on rupture of the pressurized container.

The carrier or additive may be as described in the background section. For example, as carriers or additives the compositions may comprise microdots, fluorescent material, IR activated compounds, adhesive, grease, gel, an organic or aqueous solvent, and/or a propellant. According to one embodiment, the composition comprises an adhesive in which the nucleic acid is dispersed. According to another embodiment the composition comprises a solvent which renders the composition sprayable on rupture of the pressurized container. According to other embodiments, the composition comprises a grease or gel in which the nucleic acid is dispersed.

According to certain embodiments, the composition may further comprise a plurality of particles or molecules which provide an optical signature. For example, the plurality of particles or molecules may provide a range of refractive properties which can be scanned and used to identify the composition. According to embodiments, nanoparticle such an inorganic ceramic powder may be dispersed in the composition. A range of different powders provide a range of distinct optical signatures which can be used to identify the composition. The range of unique optical signatures will generally be less than the range of different nucleotide sequences. As such, the optical signature may not uniquely label every different composition in practice. However, such an optical signature can be useful to identify a manufacturer of the compositions, a supplier, a source and/ or batch of compositions.

In light of the above, it is evident that compositions according to embodiments of the present invention may provide a cascading range of different identification components and methods. At a top level, the composition may have a specific colour, e.g. a blue colour under fluorescent light or a green colour under infra-red light. This may serve to identify a company using that colour. However, as more companies enter this field, it is likely that certain companies will end up using the same fluorescent colour for their identifier compositions. A second (or alternative) level of identification may be provided by way of microdots identifying the source of the compositions more precisely. However, if a sample of the composition does not contain a microdot then some other means is required to identify the source of the composition. A third (or alternative level) of identification may thus be provided by way of an optical signature using a plurality of optically active molecules or nanoparticles dispersed in the composition to identify the source of the composition. Finally, a fourth or alternative level of identification is provided by way of the nucleotide identifier sequences to precisely and uniquely identify each and every individual composition. Such a cascading range of identification methods provides a range of different levels of identification so as to ensure that identification will be successful. Furthermore, top level identification is made quick and cheap to perform without overly complex or expensive equipment allowing individuals or police forces to identify a central source for a composition. The more complex and time consuming nucleotide analysis can thus be centralized.

In some embodiments, the compositions may further comprise a carrier selected from a polymer and an emulsion. In these embodiments, the security marking composition is readily capable of transfer from the ATM machine or the ruptured pressurized container itself to a person, in sufficient quantity to be subsequently detected. Transfer to a person may be to skin or clothes. For example, in the event that on rupturing of the pressurized container, the security marking composition does not reach the perpetrator but is instead expelled onto the ATM machine, the security marking composition may be transferred to a person (the perpetrator) when coming into contact with, or handling the ATM machine.

The carrier is typically a sticky carrier. In this context, sticky means capable of adhering to the ATM machine or a person, but also capable of transferring from the ATM machine to a person. In some embodiments, the polymer carrier is in the form of a thread, especially a fine thread, similar to a spider-web or fishing line. In other embodiments the carrier may be in the form of small spheres or balls.

Thus, typically the polymer is a sticky polymer. Suitable sticky polymers should also be either absorbent or adsorbent enough to carry sufficient quantity of security marker. Typical such sticky polymers may be formed from a polyacrylamide or a synthetic spider silk protein, or a polymer capable of being formed into a thread. Adhesive may be added to the composition to increase stickiness, if desired, but this is optional rather than essential since some polymers (e.g. spider silk) and some emulsions (e.g. oil and water emulsion) are sufficiently sticky without adhesive.

Polyacrylamide in the form of small spheres (e.g. microspheres) or balls is an example of a carrier in the present invention. The spherical form is particularly suited for transferring to a person by adhering to clothes. The polymer is known in a variety of consumer products for its ability to absorb water up to several hundred times its own mass.

Spider silk (or synthetic spider silk protein) in the form of threads is an alternative preferred carrier in the present invention. The security marker may be provided in the compositions by using thin threads soaked in the security marker. Preferably the threads are soaked in a sticky liquid, such as the emulsion described below. The threads are typically very thin, and so (despite being strong) they will break easily on contact with a person. The threads then stick to skin and clothing.

As has been mentioned, an emulsion (especially a sticky emulsion) is also suitable as a carrier in the present invention. The emulsion comprises a water-based component and a hydrophobic liquid component (such as an oil). The emulsion may be used as a carrier on its own, or may be used to stick to the surface of another carrier, such as the threads described above. This latter application is particularly preferred for carriers which are not absorbent, and which are not suitable for carrying the security marker on their own.

One preferred sticky emulsion comprises a mixture of oil and water. This emulsion comprises a frothy, greasy and slightly sticky liquid (similar to French vinaigrette) that is particularly suitable for the current applications. The sticky liquid is particularly suitable for transfer to skin and clothes. The oily emulsion not only enhances the likelihood of successful transfer of security marker to perpetrators, but also limits evaporation as compared with a simple water solution. This is particularly useful in warm climates, since it enhances the longevity of effective protection by limiting evaporation. Once distributed, the sticky emulsion will be retained on the ATM machine, and direct contact will lead to transfer of the sticky liquid and thus the security marker to a perpetrator. In other embodiments, the sticky emulsion will be expelled directly on a person and retained.

To aid retention of the security marking composition on the ATM machine and/or perpetrator, the security marking composition preferably has a viscosity of from 0.001 to 10 Pa-s.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the pressurized container is used in an ATM machine for marking a person who tampers with the machine. The pressurized container may be as defined herein. The tampering may comprise depositing a flammable gas in the ATM machine and igniting the gas to cause an explosion.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ATM machine comprising a pressurized container as defined herein.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a security marking kit, the kit comprising: 1 ) a pressurized container as defined herein; and 2) Instructions for recording ownership of the kit in a database.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a pressurized container, comprising:

1 ) depositing a security marking composition in a container;

2) filling the container with pressurized gas; and

3) sealing the container.

The container may be as defined herein.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of determining an owner of a pressurized container as described herein, the method comprising: taking a sample of the security marking composition; reacting one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers with primers which bind to the first and second and/or third and fourth primer binding sequences to increase the length of one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers; amplifying one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers using a polymerase chain reaction; sequencing the amplified synthetic nucleotide oligomers to identify the first and/or second identifier sequence; and consulting a database to match the identified first and/or second identifier sequence with information about the owner of the composition.

The primers may comprise primer sequences which are standard primer sequences used in Sanger amplification and sequencing. The primers are longer than the primer binding sequences in order to improve sequencing accuracy. For example, the primers may have a length in the range 50 to 200 bases, preferably 50 to 100 bases.

Size of container

The size of the pressurized container of the present invention is not especially limited providing it can be incorporated into an ATM machine and house a sufficient amount of security marking composition to cover the ATM machine and surrounding area following tampering. Typically the container has a capacity of from 300 cm³ to about 1000 cm³, or from about 500 to about 700 cm³.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the present invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a schematic illustration of first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a schematic illustration of a method of determining an owner of a composition in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 3 shows a schematic illustration of a method used to lengthen and amplify one of the nucleotide oligomers in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 shows a photo of a flexible, pressurized pouch according to an embodiment the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention

A pressurized container according to the present invention is composed of polyethylene terephthalate, aluminium, and nylon, polyethylene. The container has an external length of 180mm, and external width of 1 10mm, and internal length of 175mm, and an internal width of 100mm. The internal pressure is about 250 kPa. The container has a cap which is closed to maintain the pressure.

Compositions provided in the pressurized containers of the present invention comprise a mixture of two different synthetic nucleotide oligomers. Examples are illustrated in Figure 1 . The first synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2 comprises a primer binding sequence 4, a primer binding sequence 6, and an identifier sequence 8 disposed between the primer binding sequences. The second synthetic nucleotide oligomer 10 is similar in structure to the first oligomer and comprises a primer binding sequence 12, a primer binding sequence 14, and an identifier sequence 16 disposed between the primer binding sequences.

The identifier sequences are used to identify the composition. The identifier sequences of the two oligomers are different and together provide a unique code for the composition. The identifier sequences have three to seven bases, preferably five to seven, or four to six bases. The primer binding sequences are identical or complementary to portions of standard primer sequences used for amplifying the oligomer during analysis.

Figure 2 shows a method of analyzing a composition comprising a mixture of two different synthetic nucleotide oligomers 2, 10 as described above in relation to Figure 1.

A sample of the composition is taken and the nucleotide oligomers are isolated. The nucleotide oligomers are then lengthened using primers and then amplified using a polymerase chain reaction. One key feature is that the primers are longer than the primer binding sequences of the nucleotide oligomers 2, 10. Accordingly, the nucleotide oligomers arc increased in length as illustrated in Step A of Figure 2. The extended oligomers retain the same length of identifier sequence 8, 16 but have much longer primer sequences 18, 20, 22, 24 when compared to the original primer binding sequences 4, 6, 12, 14. These extended oligomers are amplified in number using a polymerase chain reaction as illustrated in Step B and then sequenced as illustrated in Step C. The longer oligomers can be sequenced using standard sequencing methods. In contrast, it would be difficult to sequence the shorter oligomers accurately using standard methods. Finally, in Step D a database is used to match the identified sequences with information about the owner of the composition.

Figure 3 shows in more detail a method used to lengthen and amplify one of the nucleotide oligomers. As before, the synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2 comprises a first primer binding sequence 4, a second primer binding sequence 6, and an identifier sequence 8 disposed between the primer binding sequences.

Identification of the DNA security marker is an important part of certain embodiments of the invention, and will now be described in detail.

In Step 1 , a PCR primer 30 is bound to the second primer binding sequence 6. The PCR primer 30 has a terminal portion 32 at its 3' end which is complementary to the second primer binding sequence 6 for binding thereto. The PCR primer 30 also has a primer binding site 34 for Sanger sequencing amplification at a position other than the terminal portion 32. In this case, the primer binding site 34 is at the 5' end of the PCR primer 30 and comprises a sequence corresponding to a reverse sequence primer.

In Step 2, the PCR primer sequence 30 is extended using the synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2 as a template so as to form an extended sequence 40 comprising portions 36 and 38 which are complementary to the first primer binding sequence 4 and the identifier sequence 8 of the original synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2.

In Step 3, a second PCR primer 42 is bound to the portion 36 of the extended sequence 40. The second PCR primer 42 has a terminal portion 44 at its 3' end which is complementary to the portion 36 of the extended sequence 40. As the portion 36 is complementary to the first primer binding sequence 6, then the terminal portion 44 of the second primer 42 is identical to the original first primer binding sequence 4.

The second PGR primer 42 also has a primer binding site 46 for Sanger sequencing amplification at a position other than the terminal portion 44. In this case, the primer binding site 46 is at the 5' end of the PGR primer 42 and comprises a sequence corresponding to a forward sequence primer.

In Step 4, the second PGR primer 42 is extended using the extended sequence 40 as a template so as to form a final extended sequence 48 comprising portion 50 which is complementary to portion 38 and thus identical to the identifier sequence 8 of the original synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2. The final extended sequence 48 thus comprises a sequence of a forward sequence primer 46, a sequence of a reverse sequence primer 52, and a sequence 50 identical to the identifier sequence 8 of the original synthetic nucleotide oligomer 2.

In Step 5, the final extended sequence 48 is amplified in number using PGR amplification. The amplification product can then be sequenced using the forward and reverse sequencing primer sites.

The same method steps can be utilized for amplification and sequencing of a second nucleotide oligomer in the composition using a third and fourth PGR primer. In this case, if the first and second P R primers harbour the same sequencing primer binding sites as the third and fourth PGR primers respectively, the nucleotide oligomers should be amplified and sequenced separately. Alternatively, if the first and second PGR primers harbour different sequencing primer binding sites to the third and fourth PGR primers respectively, the nucleotide oligomers may be amplified in one reaction. However, sequencing analysis should still be performed separately.

The compositions and methods defined herein allow short nucleotide oligomers to be utilized for uniquely identifying the compositions while enabling standard equipment to be utilized for sequencing the oligomers by extending the length of the oligomers during the initial stages of amplification. Effective and successful dispersal of the security marker is not especially limited. The force exerted on the composition on rupturing of the pressurized container should be sufficient to disperse the security marker in the vicinity of the ATM machine. However, particular carriers and additives such as propellants and the like may aid dispersion.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appending claims.

Claims

A pressurized container housing a security marking composition, wherein the container is formed from a plastic or elastic material such that it is capable of rupturing when subjected to an external pressure above the pressure within the container, thereby expelling the security marking composition, and wherein the security markin composition comprises a security marker, and a carrier or additive which facilitates the use of the composition in security marking.

A pressurized container according to claim 1 , wherein the pressure inside the pressurized container is from 200 kPa to 1000 kPa.

A pressurized container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pressurized container comprises at least one region of weakness, wherein the region of weakness has increased susceptibility to rupturing.

A pressurized container according to claim 3, wherein the region of weakness is provided by a seam or a crease.

A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the pressurized container is composed of a material selected from a thermosetting polymer and a thermoplastic polymer.

A pressurized container according to claim 5, wherein the pressurized container is composed of polyethylene terephthalate, aluminium, nylon and polyethylene.

A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the pressurized container is composed of laminated material.

A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the pressurized container is a pouch.

A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the security marker comprises nucleic acid, preferably DNA.

A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the security marker comprises: a plurality of identical first synthetic nucleotide oligomers; and a plurality of identical second synthetic nucleotide oligomers which are different to the first synthetic nucleotide oligomers, wherein each of the first synthetic nucleotide oligomers comprises a first primer binding sequence of bases, a first identifier sequence of three to seven bases in length, and a second primer binding sequence of bases, the first identifier sequence being disposed between the first and second primer binding sequences, wherein each of the second synthetic nucleotide oligomers comprises a third primer binding sequence of bases, a second identifier sequence of three to seven bases in length, and a fourth primer binding sequence of bases, the second identifier sequence being disposed between the third and fourth primer binding sequences, wherein the first identifier sequence is different to the second identifier sequence, and wherein information on the owner of the composition is identifiable from the first and second identifier sequences using a database.

1 1. A pressurized container according to claim 10, wherein the first identifier sequence has a length in the range four to six or five to seven bases.

12. A pressurized container according to claim 10 or claim 1 1 , wherein the second identifier sequence has a length in the range four to six or five to seven bases.

13. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 12. wherein the first and second primer binding sequences are different to the third and fourth primer binding sequences.

14. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first and second primer binding sequences are identical to the third and fourth primer binding sequences.

15. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 14, wherein the first and second primer binding sequences are different.

16. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 15, wherein the third and fourth primer binding sequences are different.

17. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 16, wherein the first, second, third and fourth primer binding sequences each have a length in the range 5 to 40 bases, more preferably in the range 10 to 30 bases, most preferably in the range 15 to 20.

18. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 17, wherein the first, second, third and fourth primer binding sequences comprise sequences which are identical or complementary to portions of standard primer sequences used in Sanger amplification and sequencing.

19. A pressurized container according to claim 18, wherein the first and third primer binding sequences comprise sequences which are identical to portions of standard primer sequences used in Sanger amplification and sequencing whereas the second and fourth primer binding sequences comprise sequences which are complementary to portions of standard primer sequences used in Sanger amplification and sequencing.

20. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 19, wherein each of the first synthetic nucleotide oligomers consists of the first primer binding sequence, the first identifier sequence, and the second primer binding sequence.

21. A pressurized container according to any of claims 10 to 20, wherein each of the second synthetic nucleotide oligomers consists of the third primer binding, the second identifier sequence, and the fourth primer binding sequence.

22. A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the carrier or additive which facilitates the use of the composition in security marking increases the visibility of the composition and/or increases the adhesiveness of the composition.

23. A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the security marking composition comprises one or more of an adhesive, a fluorescent material, and infared (IR)-activated compound, a plurality of microdots, a solvent, a propel lant. a grease and a gel.

24. A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, comprising a propellant.

25. A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, wherein the container is suitable for mounting within an ATM machine.

26. A pressurized container according to any preceding claim, comprising a carrier selected from a polymer and/or an emulsion.

27. A pressurized container according to claim 26, wherein the carrier is a sticky carrier.

28. A pressurized container according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein the carrier comprises a polymer in the form of spheres, such as polyacrylamide balls, and/or a polymer in the form of threads, such as synthetic spider silk protein threads and/or cotton threads.

29. A pressurized container according to any of claims 26 to 28, wherein the carrier is selected from a sticky emulsion comprising water and a hydrophobic liquid, preferably an oil.

30. An ATM machine comprising a pressurized container as defined in any of claims 1 to

29.

31. Use of a pressurized container as defined in any preceding claim in an ATM machine for marking a person who tampers with the machine.

32. A use according to claim 31 , wherein the tampering comprises depositing a flammable gas in the ATM machine and igniting the gas to cause an explosion.

33. A security markin kit, the kit comprising:

1 ) A pressurized container as defined in any of claims 1 to 29; and

2) Instructions for recording ownership of the kit in a database.

34. A method of manufacturing a pressurized container as defined in any of claims 1 to 29, comprising:

1 ) depositing a security marking composition in a container;

2) filling the container with pressurized gas; and

3) sealing the container.

35. A method of determining an owner of a pressurized container as defined in any of claims 1 to 29, the method comprising:

taking a sample of the security composition;

identifying the security marker; and

consulting a database to match the identified security marker with information about the owner of the composition.

36. A method of determining an owner of a pressurized container as defined in any of claims 10 to 29, the method comprising taking a sample of the security composition;

reacting one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers with primers which bind to the first and second and/or third and fourth primer binding sequences to increase the length of one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers;

amplifying one or both of the first and second synthetic nucleotide oligomers using a polymerase chain reaction;

sequencing the amplified synthetic nucleotide oligomers to identify the first and/or second identifier sequence; and

consulting a database to match the identified first and/or second identifier sequence with information about the owner of the composition.

37. A method according to claim 36, wherein the primers comprise primer sequences which are standard primer sequences used in Sanger amplification and sequencing.

38. A method according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the primers have a length in the range 50 to 200 bases, more preferably in the range 50 to 100 bases.