Water-based inks are a safer and more sustainable alternative to solvent-based inks used in printing operations. They are made of water, colours, and additives, producing tiny volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that reduce harmful emissions and health concerns. Water-based inks have multiple applications, such as screen printing, flexography, and digital printing. They are recognised by their beautiful colours, durability, and convenience . Water-based inks are gaining popularity among organisations seeking eco-friendly alternatives without compromising print quality.
What is Water-Based Ink?
Water-based inks use water as the primary solvent to convey pigment· These inks are made from water rather than other materials like plastic or PVC· Water-based inks employ water as a medium to deliver pigments (colours) to the substrate· Water-based inks require more drying time during manufacture· Because water-based inkjet inks have a low chemical risk, they are ideal for primary and secondary packaging applications, including food packaging·
Different Types of Water-Based Ink
Here are some of the different types of water-based ink mentioned below:-
Dye-Based Inks
Dye-based inks are popular due to their bright colours and diverse spectrum of tints· These inks entirely dissolve in water, resulting in vibrant prints with smooth gradations and bright colours· They are often employed in applications requiring high colour intensity, such as printing pictures and high-quality images· However, dye-based inks are less resistant to water and light than other varieties, rapidly fading over time·
Latex Inks
Latex inks are water-based and contain polymer particles, which form a long-lasting layer on the printed material· These inks are environmentally friendly and adhere well to various surfaces, including vinyl, textiles, and paper· Latex inks are popular in the signs and banner industries because they are long-lasting, flexible, and resistant to environmental influences· They also generate brilliant colours and are odourless, making them appropriate for indoor and outdoor use·
Pigment-Based Inks
Pigment-based inks are made up of tiny particles suspended in water, which improves resistance to water, light, and other environmental variables· This makes them suitable for archiving and outdoor signs, both of which require longevity and endurance· While pigment-based inks may not achieve the same brightness as dye-based inks, they provide improved lifespan and colour stability, making them ideal for professional printing assignments requiring quality and durability·
Applications of Water-Based Inkjet Inks
Water-based inks are especially beneficial for printing onto numerous substrates in various sectors· Here are some:
- Non-Porous Surfaces: Water-based digital inks are very effective for printing non-porous, high-density substrates like plastic flexible film packaging·
- Wallpaper Manufacturing: Wallpaper makers increasingly use water-based inks to improve indoor air quality while maintaining print quality· Water-based digital ink enables low-volume manufacturing of digitally stored designs·
Conclusion
Water-based inks have become famous for various printing applications due to their environmental friendliness and brilliant colour output· These inks mainly comprise water, pigments, and other ingredients, making them less environmentally damaging than solvent-based inks· Water-based inks might be dye-based, pigment-based, or hybrid· Dye-based inks produce vibrant colours and are perfect for photographic prints, but pigment-based inks provide durability and fade resistance, making them suitable for fine art prints· Hybrid inks combine the most significant features of each, delivering superior quality and longevity· Finally, Zink water-based inks offer a sustainable and versatile solution that can meet various printing needs without sacrificing performance or environmental effects·
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