Avery Dennison Performance Tapes recently announced that its ShieldSense™ RFID blocking material is now classified to UL 723 (ASTM E84) to meet building and fire safety codes for surface burning characteristics. This certification allows ShieldSense to be installed in new construction buildings that incorporate RFID. ShieldSense, a lightweight aluminum foil material that allows RFID-enabled inventory systems to maximize effectiveness by isolating waves within specific environments, has reportedly demonstrated performance for flame spread and smoke characteristics through testing to UL 723 and compliance with code requirements.

When applied to surfaces such as walls and doors, ShieldSense reportedly creates a barrier that restricts RFID waves from traveling beyond its perimeters, such as stockrooms. By preventing RFID waves from traveling area to area, retailers can gain a clear picture of inventory location within the specific environment.

Many municipalities’ laws, codes, and regulations require interior finish building products be tested, classified, and/or labeled before the products can be installed (e.g., Section 8 of the International Building Code). Classification by UL to UL 723 (ASTM E84), as evident by the UL Classification Mark, is one means to provide confidence to code officials, building owners and managers, contractors, and others in the industry that the product was properly evaluated to UL 723 as referenced in the model codes, regulations, or specifications.

“The UL Classification Mark on the ShieldSense product is our way to show that it can be used in new construction, ensuring both inventory accuracy as well as the safety of building occupants and property in the event of a fire,” said Chris Blackwell, product manager for Print and Packaging with Avery Dennison Performance Tapes North America. “ShieldSense has gained tremendous acceptance in many different applications, as more end users see the value of RFID and plan to incorporate it into new facilities. Key feedback we get from customers is around being able to install without extra nails, fasteners, or attachments as well as the long-term durability of the product post install.”

For more information, visit http://tapes.averydennison.com/rfidblocking.