You're probably correct that this isn't enough to establish prior art unless you actually publish the material as well. However, it could be a good way to docum

You're probably correct that this isn't enough to establish prior art unless you actually publish the material as well. However, it could be a good way to document a trade secret. Even if another entity is granted a patent, you can continue to practice a trade secret internally if you can prove that you were using it before the patent was filed.