Q1: How does the choice of solvent impact flexible plastic printing inks?
A1: The choice of solvent for flexible plastic printing inks is crucial and is influenced by factors such as printing speed, drying system structure, substrate characteristics, indoor conditions, type of printing plate, solubility, evaporation rate, chemical compatibility, odor, toxicity, stability, and cost.
Q2: What factors influence ink volatility?
A2: Ink volatility is influenced by the ratio of solvent blends, the impact of resin content, particle size of pigments, environmental temperature and humidity. Solvent blend ratios are not an average of individual solvents, and the presence of resin and fine pigments can slow down evaporation.
Q3: What are the common tests for ink in the printing process?
A3: Common tests include evaluating ink color, viscosity, absolute viscosity, adhesiveness, drying speed, coloring power, fineness, flowability, and resistance to acids, bases, and ethanol.
Q4: Which solvents are commonly used in gravure and flexographic printing?
A4: Commonly used solvents include hydrocarbons (e.g., toluene), esters (e.g., methyl acetate, ethyl acetate), ketones (e.g., acetone, methyl ethyl ketone), and alcohols (e.g., isopropanol, isobutanol, n-butanol, ethanol).