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Ink Jet Inks |
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Inks
are arguably the most critical element of an ink jet printing
system. Inks are a product of chemical engineering and color
science, and must be developed for absolute compatibility with
the other components of the ink jet printing system.
Just as ink jet printing technologies vary, ink formulations
must be developed for compatibility. For example, continuous-flow
ink jet inks must be electrically conductive to allow for selective
charging of individual droplets.
Physical parameters of the ink must also be matched to the print
technology. Variables include surface tension, pH, viscosity,
boiling point and reactivity with the hardware materials.
Coloration is another critical factor. A variation in color
can cause a significant color shift in the final printed output.
Color dispersion and optical density must also be carefully
controlled in order to ensure consistent output quality.
Ink colorants can be either pigments or dyes, with each offering
advantages and disadvantages. Pigments are solid color particles
suspended within a fluid, while dyes are dissolved within a
solution. Dye-based inks offer vibrancy and stability, but sacrifice
UV-resistance and optical density. Pigment-based inks offer
high UV-resistance, but sacrifice stability and vibrancy. |
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