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Perfecting printing ink performance

Malvern analytical systems deliver essential data to Domino

Inkjet inks are multi-component formulations consisting of a solvent (organic or aqueous), a polymeric binder, a colorant (dye or pigment) and additives such as surfactants and surface modifiers. Producing inks with the performance characteristics needed for demanding applications such as adhesion on low surface energy substrates, for example polyethylene and polypropylene packaging, or jetting droplets at a high velocity from a narrow printhead nozzle requires a detailed understanding of how the physical characteristics of raw ingredients and formulations relate to final performance.

The multi detector Viscotek TDAmax GPC/SEC system measures the molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and structure of polymeric binders in the ink. These binders are used to optimize and control the viscosity of the ink and the way it jets from the print head. The Zetasizer Nano is a dynamic light scattering system that measures particle size, zeta potential and microrheology. These capabilities are used here to monitor pigment milling and to engineer ink stability. The latest addition to the range of Malvern systems in use at Domino is the new m-VROCi microfluidic rheometer, which enables researchers to directly measure viscosity under the high shear conditions found at the print head, to further control jet-ability and atomization of the ink.

“Malvern''s application experts help us to understand how best to use both established and new analytical techniques in our research,” said Stuart Reynolds, Senior Chemist at Domino Printing Sciences. “The technical support that we''ve received has been a deciding factor in our decision to continue to work with the company. Malvern systems also provide the cutting-edge performance and reliability that we need. We''re looking forward to fully exploiting the new rheological capabilities that we have recently invested in.”

http://www.malvern.com/inks

Details

  • Grovewood Rd, Malvern WR14 1XZ, UK
  • Malvern Instruments Ltd

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