Can water-based inks be used on various substrates, such as paper, cardboard, fabric, or plastics
Date: Jul 21 2023 From: Star Color
Yes, water-based inks can be used on various substrates including paper, cardboard, fabric, and certain types of plastics. Water-based inks are versatile and widely used in many applications due to their eco-friendly nature, ease of use, and ability to produce vibrant colors.
Here's a breakdown of their compatibility with different substrates:
1.Paper and Cardboard: Water-based inks are commonly used in printing on paper and cardboard. They are absorbed by the porous surface of these materials, allowing for good adhesion and color penetration. Water-based inks are widely used in commercial printing, such as newspapers, magazines, packaging, and other paper-based products.
2.Fabric: Water-based inks are also suitable for printing on fabric. They are commonly used in textile printing and can be applied to various types of fabrics, including cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic blends. When properly applied and heat-set, water-based inks can provide excellent durability and wash-fastness on fabric.
3.Plastics: While water-based inks may not adhere well to all types of plastics, they can be used on certain plastic substrates. Water-based inks generally work best on porous or absorbent plastics, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). However, they may not be suitable for non-porous or low-energy plastics like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polystyrene (PS) without additional surface treatment or primers.
It's important to note that the compatibility of water-based inks with different substrates can vary based on specific ink formulations and substrate properties. Before using water-based inks on a particular substrate, it's advisable to consult the ink manufacturer or conduct some testing to ensure optimal results.