Solvent-based inks are a type of ink commonly used in the printing and coatings industries, based on pigments, resins and solvents. Compared with water-based inks, the diluents used in solvent-based inks are organic solvents instead of water. These organic solvents have good volatility and solubility, which can make the ink dry quickly, thereby achieving rapid production and processing. But at the same time, since these organic solvents contain some volatile organic compounds, there are also environmental and health problems in the use of solvent-based inks.
Performance
The performance of solvent-based inks can be tested and evaluated from different angles. Here are some performance types that may need to be tested and metrics that may need to be recorded:
| performance type | index |
|---|---|
| D | Clarity, color accuracy, gloss, adhesion of printed patterns |
| stability | Ink stability, drying speed, fade resistance |
| Environmental adaptability | Ink adaptability, performance under different temperature, humidity and light conditions |
| volatility | Solvent volatility, volatile organic compound (VOC) content |
| Packaging tightness | Sealing of ink packaging, storage time after use |
Detection method
The following are commonly used test methods:
Printing effect test: Use a printing machine or sample printing equipment to print according to standard test methods and requirements, and check and evaluate the printed matter. Aspects such as graphic clarity, color accuracy, gloss and adhesion are typically checked.
Stability test: Put the ink under different environmental conditions in the laboratory, such as high temperature, low temperature, humidity, etc., and observe its performance. It is also possible to test the stability of the ink on different media, such as paper, plastic, metal, etc. Evaluate its drying speed, fade resistance and more.
Environmental adaptability test: Put solvent-based inks under different environmental conditions, such as high temperature, low temperature, high humidity, low humidity, etc., and observe its performance. It is also possible to test the suitability of the ink on different media, such as paper, plastic, metal, etc.
Volatility Test: Use standard test methods and equipment to test the volatility of solvents and their volatile organic compound (VOC) content. Assess its impact on the environment and health.
Package Leakage Test: Using standard test methods, test ink packaging for airtightness and evaluate its performance during storage time after use.
Before testing, it is necessary to formulate a test plan and test process, clarify test objectives and indicators, select appropriate test equipment and methods, and record test results and data. After the test, it is necessary to analyze and evaluate the test results and propose improvements
