Several new ink drying technologies (1)
Ink drying technology involves a complex process that can be divided into two main stages. The first stage is when the ink transitions from a liquid to a semi-solid state, losing its ability to transfer and becoming "fixed," often referred to as "initial dry." The second stage involves the complete drying of the ink through physical and chemical reactions in the binder, resulting in a fully dried film known as "dryness."
The drying mechanism varies significantly depending on the type of ink used. Common drying methods are broadly categorized into physical and chemical drying. Physical drying includes natural evaporation, osmotic drying, dusting fixation, and aqueous polymerization. Chemical drying encompasses heat-based methods such as combustion, infrared, and microwave drying, as well as radiation-based techniques like UV and electron beam curing. Reaction drying involves oxidation or two-component reactive systems, where the drying rate depends on the ink's formulation.
Different printing processes, substrates, and machinery impose unique requirements on ink fixation and drying. For example, some inks rely on absorption by the paper (infiltration drying), while others require oxidative or solvent-based drying. Volatile drying involves the evaporation of solvents, leaving behind a solid resin and pigment layer. Two-liquid reactive inks, on the other hand, require mixing of a base and a curing agent before application, making them ideal for difficult-to-adhere surfaces like metal or glass.
Newer technologies, such as photopolymerization drying, use infrared or ultraviolet light to accelerate the drying process. Infrared drying increases the speed of thermal polymerization, reducing drying time from hours to minutes. UV drying, using light-sensitive initiators, triggers rapid chain reactions that solidify the ink in seconds. Electron beam curing, another advanced method, uses high-energy electrons to initiate polymerization without the need for photoinitiators, offering faster, more energy-efficient, and eco-friendly results.
These innovations have significantly improved print quality, durability, and environmental sustainability, making them essential in modern printing industries.
Activated Alumina,Activated Alumina Balls,Alumina Desiccant,Alumina Adsorbent
Ningbo Cijie Chemical Equipment Co., Ltd. , https://www.chemicaltower.com