Sony's successful launch last year of contactless smart cards made of bioplastic derived from biomass* marked a world first (November 28, 2006). Applications include use in Edy prepaid e-money services (powered by Sony's FeliCa non-contact IC card technology) or as employee ID or membership cards. The convenience and security of smart cards has driven their surging popularity, and now, they are available in a more eco-friendly format. For a design that captures the appeal of this material, Sony designers worked with card developers to perfect the graphic design and finish of the cards.
* Biomass is a general term for organic agricultural or marine material, including surplus or normally unused natural resources. Unlike materials derived from coal or petrochemicals, biomass provides a renewable resource, thanks to natural cycles involving sunlight, air, soil, and the ocean. In this way, biomass holds great promise as an untapped resource for energy and materials.
Two designs were developed. The first emphasizes the textural qualities of this unique plastic, with a matte ivory finish reminiscent of ceramics. Its sole embellishment is a logo, for an appealingly simple design.
The other has a more casual flair. Its endearing sprout motif, brimming with vitality, will surely grow on users. This design is inspired by a creative reinterpretation of the card's internal antenna in the context of this eco-friendly material, as if sprouts have burst into life on the antenna, stretching up into a cheerful blue sky.
Student and faculty ID cards at Shohoku College, Sony Institute of Higher Education, are also FeliCa non-contact smart cards made of bioplastic.
Identifying information is neatly arranged in a simple layout over the watermark-like college logo in a clean, fresh image perfect for student ID cards.
Health insurance ID cards made of bioplastic (sample application)
The Sony Health Insurance Union is phasing in a more eco-friendly health insurance card made of bioplastic (not an IC card) for about 150,000 members.
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