Aqueous Ink Composition for Vibrant Prints Without Nozzle Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aqueous inks for industrial applications on non- or less-ink-absorbent substrates face challenges in achieving high color vibrancy and glossiness while maintaining scratch resistance and preventing nozzle clogging in inkjet heads.
Innovation Solution
An ink composition comprising a water-insoluble colorant, a dispersing agent, a resin A derived from C1-C4 alkyl methacrylate and C2-C6 alkyl acrylate polymerization, and a resin B derived from styrenic monomer and divinylbenzene polymerization, with anionic reactive emulsifiers, is used to enhance ink fixation and prevent clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If aqueous ink with high solid component content is used to improve fixation and rubfastness on non- or less-ink-absorbent substrates, then color vibrancy and glossiness are improved, but the ink dries too easily forming solids in nozzles and ink flow channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical composition parameters of the aqueous ink by incorporating specific surfactants and resin systems that alter the surface tension and drying characteristics. This allows the ink to maintain high solid content for good fixation while modifying its drying kinetics to prevent premature solidification in the inkjet head.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces surfactants as intermediary substances that mediate between the water-based ink vehicle and the non-absorbent substrate. These surfactants create a controlled interface that allows the ink to remain fluid during ejection and storage, then properly adhere to the substrate without forming clogs in the inkjet system.
2Reliability
If non-aqueous solvent inks or curable inks are used to print on non- or less-ink-absorbent substrates, then fixation and rubfastness are improved, but volatile organic compounds (VOCs) increase causing safety and environmental issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent fundamentally changes the solvent system parameter from organic solvents to water-based formulation. This substitution maintains the functional performance of fixation and rubfastness through careful selection of aqueous-compatible resins and surfactants, while eliminating the harmful VOC emissions associated with traditional solvent-based inks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential disadvantage of water-based inks (slower drying and poorer adhesion on non-absorbent substrates) into a benefit by using this property to prevent nozzle clogging. The controlled drying behavior that would normally be seen as a drawback actually serves to keep the ink fluid during storage and ejection, preventing solid formation in the inkjet head.
3Strength
If stronger coating of solid component is formed to improve scratch resistance, then fixation and rubfastness are improved, but the ability to be washed away decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical structure parameters of the resin and surfactant system to create a coating with specific properties. The resin formulation is designed to provide adequate scratch resistance for industrial applications while maintaining chemical susceptibility to common washing agents, achieving a balance between durability and removability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The ink composition achieves high color vibrancy, glossiness, scratch resistance, and easy washability, while reducing nozzle clogging in inkjet heads, ensuring stable ink ejection and improved image quality.
Implementation Method 1
the resin A being a resin including a product of polymerization of at least C1-C4 alkyl methacrylate and C2-C6 alkyl acrylate, the resin B being a resin including a product of polymerization of at least a styrenic monomer and divinylbenzene
Implementation Method 2
An ink composition comprising a water-insoluble colorant, a dispersing agent
Data Source
AI summary
An ink composition including a water-insoluble coloring agent, a dispersing agent, a resin A, a resin B, and water, in which the resin A is obtained through polymerization of at least a C1-C4 alkyl methacrylate and a C2-C6 alkyl acrylate, and the resin B is obtained through polymerization of at least a styrene-based monomer and divinyl benzene. An inkjet-recording method in which the ink composition is used; a recording medium to which the ink composition is attached; and an inkjet printer including a container filled with the ink composition.