The difference between UV ink and water-based ink
Date: Aug 08 2024 From: Star Color
UV ink and
water-based ink are both environmentally friendly inks widely used in the printing industry. So, what are the differences between the two? Let's take a look together:
Composition and StructureUV ink:
It is mainly composed of pigments, prepolymers (resins), monomers (active diluents), and photoinitiators.
Not using traditional solvents, but using monomers as diluents.
The photoinitiator triggers a polymerization reaction under the action of ultraviolet light, which solidifies the ink.
Water based ink:
Using water as the main solvent, pigments or dyes are dispersed or dissolved in water.
Contains water-soluble resin as a connecting material to help ink adhere to the substrate.
May contain a small amount of additives to improve the performance of the ink.
Curing/drying methodUV ink:
UV ink solidifies instantly through UV irradiation, which is a physical process.
During the curing process, the photoinitiator absorbs ultraviolet energy, triggering a polymerization reaction between the prepolymer and monomer.
This rapid curing feature reduces waiting time in production and allows printing on non absorbent materials.
Water based ink:
Water based ink undergoes a chemical process through the natural evaporation or heating drying of water molecules.
The drying time depends on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity, as well as the type of substrate.
After the evaporation of water, the pigment and resin remain on the substrate to form an image.
Performance characteristicsUV ink:
Provide excellent wear resistance, chemical resistance, and weather resistance.
Usually has high glossiness and color saturation.
Suitable for various materials, including non absorbent surfaces such as plastic, metal, glass, etc.
Water based ink:
Suitable for paper, fabrics, and other absorbent materials.
Environmentally friendly with low VOC emissions.
Usually provides good color reproduction and printing quality.
application area UV ink:
Suitable for industrial printing, packaging printing, label printing and other applications that require high-quality printing effects and high durability.
Used for special effect printing, such as reliefs, tactile coatings, etc.
Water based ink:
Used for flexographic printing, gravure printing, screen printing, etc.
Suitable for printed materials such as books, magazines, posters, etc.
Environmental considerationsUV ink:
Almost free of VOCs, reducing harmful substance emissions.
During the curing process, a small amount of ozone or other by-products may be generated.
Water based ink:
Due to the use of water as a solvent, it is considered a more environmentally friendly choice.
Low VOC emissions during the production process.
costUV ink:
The initial investment is relatively high because UV curing equipment is required.
In the long run, due to high production efficiency, the overall cost may be lower.
Water based ink:
The cost is relatively low, but additional drying time and equipment may be required.
SecurityUV ink:
Usually does not contain harmful solvents, but attention should be paid to the safety of UV light sources during operation.
Water based ink:
Due to the use of water as a solvent, it is generally considered a safer choice.
Huizhou Starcolor based on the forefront of green industry, specializes in the research and production of high-end water-based ink and UV ink, aiming to create a more environmentally friendly, safe, and efficient printing experience for customers. Our water-based ink and UV ink strictly comply with international environmental standards, adhere to quality control from the source, and endow the ink with excellent environmental characteristics such as low VOC emissions, easy cleaning, and no harmful residues.
Our product line covers a wide range, from high transparency film printing to printing on various substrates such as paper and plastic, all of which can demonstrate excellent printing adaptability and expressiveness. Whether it is rich color saturation, excellent fade resistance, or outstanding friction resistance, all demonstrate Huizhou Starcolor's ultimate pursuit of quality.
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