As there is a high demand for, manufacturers dealing in high quality of inorganic and organic pigments are important. They provide customized solutions with high performing applications. The interaction of pigmentation with ink is related to the viscosity, texture, gloss, and flow. Manufactures have to pay attention to reproduction of color tones due to variable paper quality as the same is also required for the packaging industry.
Flexibility is the key to preparation of pigments for offset applications. The inkjet industry relies on solvent and water based inks with right choice of pigmentation. With global concerns over ethical processes, the shift is towards making a combination that complies with industry norms and also satisfies the customer.
Formulation accuracies
The dispersion of formulation pigments is downsized between 50 and 200nm (as per application). They need to be stable for particles to bond and absorb certain compounds. Reducing the particle size is a challenge due to high density. Manufacturers have to check the viscosity and surface tension which restrict ink properties. That is why pigment particles that bond edges are important. When preparing various solutions, it is important to understand the applications required by the customer.
The inkjet sector requires:
Accurate dispersion for printing inks.
Water-based inks for tints
Solvent-based inks for transparency.
Importance in packaging & labeling
Without the use of right pigment and inks, the packaging industry cannot have good brand quality or visibility. The main objective of the final formulation is to meet the end user’s requirement. The correct selection reflects on the bleed, heat and migratory factors. For example, liquid inks require a dry toner/press cake form. The dispersion quality determines its usefulness with versatile solutions for offset, gravure for publications, decorative and laminate inks.
Water-based inks for tints and transparency
Water-based inks are currently trending globally because of lesser impact on environment. The printing industry is adopting new methods for ethical packaging solutions. Manufacturers face challenges in creating pigments as water generates problems. With the use of anti-foaming agents, micro-bubbles are reduced to stop thickening of the ink. The customer’s demands can still be met with tinting, high gloss and transparency.
Solvent-based inks for uncoated surfaces
Different inks have various carriers and substrates. Hence, the main considerations for creating applications with solvent-based inks depend on:
Surface tension configuration
Print speed requirement
Chemical compatibility
End use of the application
Compliances with industry regulations
A manufacturer will factor the above when testing and creating samples for customers. It will create pigment particle bonding with the ink. If the ink does not match the quality, it will ruin the design and purpose of the process. Uncoated surfaces also require effective solutions. Printing is done on paper, metallic surfaces, films, cellophane and plastic. Hence, to make the right choice, discussing the requirement is important. Manufacturers who use the best materials and are experienced in offering suggestions related to essential pigment coating are capable of delivering the best results.