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Steven Chan, Ph.D.
Senior Principal Applications Chemist |
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How can I overcome print defects when formulating an ultralow-VOC, water-based ink for a nonporous substrate? |
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Traditional water-based inks can contain 5-10 percent IPA (or other short chain alcohols) in order to reduce the surface tension and achieve good wetting on nonporous substrates. Ink formulators have therefore turned to wetting agents to reduce the surface tension and lower the VOC content. These wetting agents often produce foam, can be difficult to incorporate if a solid or waxy material, or can contribute to higher VOC levels when in a liquid form. Recent developments have shown that a new product, Surfynol® 2502 surfactant, can overcome these challenges. A low-viscosity liquid with only 1.2 percent VOC, Surfynol 2502 surfactant is nonfoaming and exhibits very low equilibrium and dynamic surface tensions at low use levels. Surfyønol 2502 surfactant is therefore an excellent choice for use in ultralow-VOC, water-based inks where its exceptional substrate wetting can eliminate print defects on nonporous substrates. |
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