Table of Contents:
Introduction
What Is an Epoxy Card
Overview of the Epoxy Card Manufacturing Process
Is an Epoxy Card an IC Card or an ID Card
Differences Between Epoxy Cards and Regular Cards
Key Features of Epoxy Cards
What Styles Are Available for Epoxy Cards
How to Use an Epoxy Card
How to Choose the Right Epoxy Card
Are Epoxy Cards Suitable for Access Control
Application Scenarios for Epoxy Cards
Can Epoxy Cards Be Copied via NFC
Customization Process for Epoxy RFID Cards
Key Considerations When Customizing Epoxy Cards
Conclusion
Introduction
With the rise of smart access systems and personalized identification tools, RFID epoxy cards have become a popular choice across industries. These cards, sealed with a layer of clear and durable epoxy resin, not only offer a stylish and compact design, but also provide enhanced protection for the embedded chip.
As businesses and organizations increasingly seek solutions that combine functionality, aesthetics, and brand identity, epoxy cards stand out for their waterproof, wear-resistant, and fully customizable features. From access control in office buildings to membership management in gyms and clubs, epoxy cards are gaining widespread adoption due to their durability and ease of use.
What Is an Epoxy Card
The epoxy card, also known as a mini contactless card, is a compact and elegantly designed smart card that’s easy to carry and widely used in modern identity recognition and intelligent management systems. Made from durable materials such as high-strength PVC or ABS, the card features high-precision printed graphics sealed beneath a layer of imported, eco-friendly crystal epoxy resin. This finish gives the surface a glass-like clarity and a three-dimensional look, while also providing protection against water, dust, and scratches. The result is a durable, attractive card with a smooth, rounded feel.
These cards can be embedded with a variety of smart chips, including EM4100, Mifare, IC, and ID, making them compatible with a wide range of readers. They are ideal for use in membership systems, loyalty programs, campus cards, access control, public transportation, parking systems, residential security, and employee identification. Fully customizable in terms of design, logo, and shape—including cartoon-style forms—the cards offer vivid colors and strong visual appeal, making them an excellent choice for brand promotion, marketing campaigns, and festive giveaways.
Structure of Epoxy Card
A complete epoxy card usually consists of the following layers (from inside to outside):
1. Smart chip module: responsible for data storage and read/write interaction, it is the core of the card.
2. Antenna coil: surrounds the chip and is used to receive RF signals from the card reader to realize contactless communication.
3. Card base layer (double-sided): encapsulates the chip and antenna bearing structure, usually PVC or ABS.
4. Printing layer: display enterprise LOGO, card number, QR code, pattern and other contents.
5. Epoxy resin adhesive layer (upper surface): protection and decoration, with high gloss, strong three-dimensional sense, wear-resistant and durable features.
Overview of the Epoxy Card Manufacturing Process
1. Chip Embedding
Select the appropriate RFID chip (e.g., EM4100, Mifare S50) along with a matching antenna coil. Embed the chip and coil into a pre-molded ABS or PVC card shell. Use ultrasonic welding or heat pressing to securely encapsulate the chip within the card body.
2. Card Surface Printing
Design the card’s front surface and print the graphics using CMYK offset printing or screen printing techniques. After printing, apply a protective lamination layer (matte or glossy) to enhance durability and color adhesion. Optional personalization such as serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, inkjet codes, or laser-engraved codes can be added.
3. Die Cutting / Shaping
Cut the printed card into the final desired shape (e.g., round, teardrop, custom cartoon forms) using precision die-cutting. Ensure clean, smooth edges with no burrs to prepare for the resin doming step.
4. Resin Doming
Place the shaped card on a doming workstation. Apply a controlled amount of epoxy resin using an automated or manual dispenser. Maintain even coverage and avoid air bubbles or overflows. As the resin begins to settle, level the surface for a uniform, glossy dome.
5. Curing / Drying
Allow the epoxy cards to cure naturally in a dust-free environment for at least 24 hours, or place them in a temperature-controlled oven for faster curing. Once fully cured, the resin will exhibit high clarity and a three-dimensional glossy effect.
6. Quality Control & Packaging
Inspect the epoxy surface for evenness, smoothness, clarity, and absence of bubbles. Test chip functionality. Approved cards are cleaned and individually packed in standard or customized packaging.
7. Additional Notes:
Resin Material: High-quality, environmentally friendly imported epoxy resin is commonly used, known for its excellent transparency, wear resistance, and resistance to yellowing.
Optional Features: RFID shielding layer, anti-counterfeit labels, keyring hole punching, dual-color designs, and more are available.
Is an Epoxy Card an IC Card or ID Card
Epoxy Cards Can Be Either IC Cards or ID Cards. A epoxy card is a type of card that contains an integrated circuit chip, commonly referred to as a smart card or microchip card. It embeds a specialized IC chip into a PVC plastic substrate that conforms to ISO7816 standards and is then sealed into a card form similar in size and shape to a magnetic stripe card.
epoxy cards can be equipped with either ID chips or IC chips, and therefore can be produced as ID epoxy cards or IC epoxy cards.
Detailed Analysis:
| VS | Program | ID Cards | IC Cards |
| Chip Type | Chip Type | Read-only RFID chip (e.g., EM4100, TK4100) | Read/Write RFID chip (e.g., Mifare S50, NTAG213) |
| Operating Frequency | Low frequency 125kHz | High frequency 13.56MHz | |
| Protocol Standard | No standard or uses simple proprietary protocol | Complies with international standards such as ISO14443A/B, ISO15693 | |
| Functional Differences | Storage Capacity | Fixed read-only serial number (typically 64-bit) | Includes user memory area, supports read/write operations (typically 1K, 4K storage capacity) |
| Write Capability | Read-only, content cannot be modified after production | Readable and writable, supports multiple rewrites | |
| Encryption and Security | No security mechanism, easily cloned | Supports encryption and access control (e.g., Mifare S50 supports multi-sector encryption) | |
| Uniqueness | Has a unique ID number | UID can be set, and data uniqueness can be achieved | |
| Lifespan | Long lifespan, data cannot be altered | Limited read/write cycles (typically over 100,000), reusable | |
| Application Scenarios | Access Control System | Commonly used | Supports permission/access management |
| Attendance System | Suitable for basic clock-in applications | Can log detailed data such as clock-in/out times | |
| Campus Card / Transit Card | Not applicable | IC card required to support balance and transaction records | |
| Parking Lot | Commonly used in card number-based billing systems | Capable of recording complex data like entry time and license plate numbers | |
| Membership Card / Loyalty Card | Single-function | Can store points, transaction history, and more |
Summary
ID epoxy Card: Suitable for applications requiring simple identification and cost-effectiveness, such as access control and time attendance.
IC epoxy Card: Ideal for scenarios that require data reading and writing with higher security, such as public transportation, campus cards, and payment systems.
Differences Between Epoxy Cards and Regular Cards
1. Differences in Appearance and Structure
A standard card typically has a flat surface with either a matte or glossy laminate finish, and is usually 0.76 mm thick. Its shape generally follows standard card dimensions, such as the size of a bank card.
A epoxy card, on the other hand, adds a layer of transparent epoxy resin on top of the standard card, creating a glossy, crystal-clear, three-dimensional effect. The thickness increases to around 2 mm. In addition to standard sizes, epoxy cards can be customized into special shapes such as round, teardrop, or cartoon designs.
2. Differences in Process and Performance
The manufacturing process of a standard card is relatively simple, primarily involving printing and lamination. Its durability in terms of wear resistance and waterproofing is moderate.
In contrast, epoxy cards include an additional doming step. Using either automatic or manual dispensing machines, epoxy resin is precisely applied to the card surface. The resin is then left to cure naturally or baked in an oven. This added layer significantly enhances the card’s resistance to wear, water, and corrosion, while also providing superior visual appeal and tactile feel.
3. User Experience and Application Scenarios
Standard cards are commonly used in practical, cost-sensitive applications such as access control, attendance tracking, membership cards, and public transportation cards.
Epoxy cards, however, emphasize aesthetics and customization. They are often used as keychain cards, brand identification cards, commemorative cards, or personalized gift cards. Designed for portability, epoxy cards often feature a hole for attaching a lanyard or key ring, combining functionality with decorative appeal.
Key Features of Epoxy Cards
1. Delicate Appearance, Compact and Practical
Small-sized card with an elegant design, fashionable and attractive. Smooth and rounded surface makes it easy to carry. Ideal for use as a keychain or decorative accessory.
2. Durable and Fade-Resistant
The surface is treated with high-quality epoxy resin, enhancing both aesthetics and durability. It is wear-resistant and scratch-proof, maintaining vibrant colors even after long-term use.
3. Waterproof
Fully sealed structure effectively prevents moisture infiltration, suitable for humid environments.
4. Shockproof
Excellent impact resistance and pressure resistance, not easily damaged.
5. Corrosion-Resistant
Resistant to acids, alkalis, and oxidation, adaptable to a wide range of harsh environments.
6. Flexible and Convenient to Carry
Can be equipped with key rings or lanyards for easy portability. Suitable for access control, membership cards, attendance systems, and other applications.
7. Various Styles and Customizable Designs
Available in multiple colors, patterns, and shapes. CBT can customize the appearance based on client-provided designs to meet branding or personalization needs.
8. Supports Multiple Chip Encapsulation
Compatible with 125KHz low-frequency and 13.56MHz high-frequency chips such as EM4100, TK4100, MIFARE series, NTAG, etc. Composite chip packaging is also available.
9. Optional Personalized Encoding Services
ID numbers, serial numbers, or laser engravings can be added as needed for easy system recognition and management.
Available Styles and Designs
1. Standard Card-Type Epoxy Card
Same size as a credit card (85.5mm × 54mm)
2. Keychain-Type Epoxy Card (Small Size)
Various shapes: round, oval, square, teardrop, key-shaped, etc.
3. Custom-Shaped Epoxy Card
Customized into various shapes, such as animals, company logos, cartoon patterns, etc.
4. Single-Sided Epoxy Card
Epoxy coating on one side only; the other side can be printed or labeled
5. Double-Sided Epoxy Card
Epoxy coating on both front and back; provides better protection and a more premium appearance
How to Use an Epoxy Card
The usage is very simple. Regardless of the type of epoxy card, you just need to bring it close to or place it on the card reader, and it will be recognized.
How to Choose the Right Epoxy Card
Choosing the right epoxy card mainly depends on factors such as chip type, application, budget, and usage frequency. Below are some key selection references:
Material and Quality:
Epoxy cards are typically made of PVC, offering waterproof, shock-resistant, and corrosion-resistant properties to ensure stable performance in various environments. Choosing high-quality epoxy cards ensures durability and long-term usage.
Functionality and Chip Type:
Epoxy cards can be embedded with different types of chips such as ID, IC, NTAG213, NTAG215, etc., to meet different needs. Selecting the appropriate chip type ensures proper functionality and system compatibility.
Design and Customization:
Epoxy cards can be printed with personalized designs or text for a more professional appearance. A variety of styles and colors are available, and custom designs can be made to enhance uniqueness and aesthetics.
Price and Cost Performance:
Prices of epoxy cards vary significantly in the market. Choosing cost-effective products can help reduce expenses. Some suppliers offer high-quality products at competitive prices with fast shipping—even same-day dispatch.
Customer Reviews and Service:
Choosing suppliers - Chipbond Tech with good customer feedback and reliable service ensures product satisfaction and quality after-sales support.
Are Epoxy Cards Suitable for Access Control
Epoxy cards are ideal for use in IC/ID access control systems, especially in scenarios that require durability, portability, and easy identification. ID epoxy cards are suitable for 125kHz low-frequency ID systems, offering lower security and lower cost.
IC epoxy cards are designed for 13.56MHz high-frequency IC systems, supporting encryption and providing higher security. When selecting a card, it is important to match it with the frequency and type of the access control device to effectively meet access management requirements.
Application Scenarios for Epoxy Cards
Campus and residential community management
Access control and attendance
Points and consumption system
Public transport card swiping
All-in-one card payment
Membership management
Parking fee collection
Product identification
Identity recognition
Smart business card
Hotel key card
Electronic ticket
Ski resort entry
Can Epoxy Cards Be Copied via NFC
Whether a epoxy card can be copied using NFC depends mainly on the type of chip it contains:
If it is an ID epoxy card (125kHz low-frequency), it cannot be copied using a smartphone's NFC, as smartphones do not support this frequency.
If it is an IC epoxy card (13.56MHz high-frequency, such as M1 cards), some non-encrypted cards can be copied or written using an NFC-enabled smartphone.
If it is an encrypted IC card or CPU card, it cannot be copied with standard NFC tools due to data protection.
If it is an NFC-designed epoxy card (e.g., NTAG series), it fully supports NFC read/write operations and can be copied or programmed with a compatible smartphone.
In summary, not all epoxy cards can be copied via NFC—this depends on the chip type and encryption status.
Customization Process for Epoxy RFID Cards
1. Requirement Confirmation
Clearly define the type of card needed (ID or IC), chip model, operating frequency (e.g., 125kHz or 13.56MHz), and desired production process.
2. Formal Quotation
A quotation will be provided based on the confirmed requirements.
3. Design File Submission
Submit the card design file (.cdr, .ai, .psd), including logo, text, colors, and patterns. If no design is available, CBT can provide free design support.
4. Specification Confirmation
Confirm card size and shape (standard rectangle or custom shapes like round, keychain, etc.), single or double-sided epoxy coating, and surface finish (glossy or matte).
5. Sample Confirmation
A sample will be produced based on the confirmed design. Mass production will begin once the sample is approved.
6. Mass Production
After sample confirmation, full production begins. The typical lead time is 5–10 working days, depending on quantity and process complexity.
7. Quality Check and Delivery
Finished cards undergo quality inspection, are packaged, and shipped. The customer should confirm the quantity and quality upon receipt.
Key Considerations When Customizing Epoxy Cards:
Chip Compatibility
Ensure the chip matches your system's operating frequency. ID cards typically operate at 125kHz, while IC cards operate at 13.56MHz. Mismatched chips may result in card malfunction.
Usage Environment
Epoxy cards are waterproof, dustproof, and wear-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor or high-usage environments. However, avoid exposing them to high temperatures or heavy pressure.
Production Timeline
Plan your customization schedule based on your project timeline. Allow sufficient time for sampling and production to avoid delays.
Data Pre-Writing
Inform the manufacturer in advance if the cards need to be pre-encoded with card numbers or other data, or if additional elements like serial numbers or QR codes are required.
Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ)
Epoxy cards usually have a MOQ. Small orders may have a higher unit cost, so bulk ordering is generally more cost-effective.
After-Sales Support and Warranty
Choose a supplier with proven experience and a good reputation to ensure product quality and reliable after-sales service.
Conclusion
This is an introduction to epoxy cards. With their high visual appeal, durability, waterproof and scratch-resistant surface, and comfortable texture, epoxy cards have become an ideal choice for a wide range of card applications. The unique epoxy coating process not only enhances the texture and visual impact of the cards but also significantly extends their lifespan, making them suitable for long-term use.
If you are looking for a card product that is both stylish and durable, practical and capable of showcasing your brand image, CBT is your trusted partner. We offer personalized customization and provide one-stop services from design and production to delivery, meeting a wide variety of application needs. We look forward to hearing from you.
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