These infrared markers are passive — they are illuminated by ambient light. They can be coated on various substrates: paper, plastic, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, metal, wood, etc. The hidden infrared patterns can be detected using standard near infrared (NIR) cameras, which are used to capture the infrared images shown here.
The quickest way to test if these markers work for your applications is to start with paper/plastic sheets coated with different markers and attach them to the various surfaces in your work area. Once proven to work, you can move on to permanent installations using ceiling tiles, floor tiles, etc., that once installed, can operate for decades.