Surface Tension Effects on the Adhesion and Drying of Water-Based Inks and Coatings

Abstract

Water-based ink and coating use is reviewed with the emphasis on wetting and printing of film, metal, and metallized substrates. This paper addresses the effects of surface tension of water-based flexographic and rotogravure inks and coatings. The mode of drying in water-based technology is explored as well as static and dynamic surface tension of inks and coatings. Ink formulation and manufacturing considerations are reviewed to optimize surface tension effects for high speed presses. The role of substrate and ink transfer mediums are discussed relative to their impact on ink and coating drying rates. Corona treatment of film substrates is analyzed from the perspective of its effect on drying speed and ink adhesion. Suggestions are made to improve the quality performance of water-based ink and coatings through use of on-line surface tension equipment. Most importantly, the question “Why should I measure surface tension of my water-based ink?” is answered from the perspective of improving press productivity and ink performance.