Inkjet Ink Soluble Polymer Binder Smear Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet inks containing self-dispersible pigments (SDPs) face challenges with poor smear resistance and jetting performance, as existing solutions that improve print quality often compromise jetability.
Innovation Solution
The addition of a soluble structured polymer binder to an aqueous inkjet ink comprising SDP colorants enhances print quality without compromising jetting performance, specifically improving fastness and smear resistance while maintaining stable drop volume and direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If self-dispersible pigment is used in aqueous inkjet ink, then dispersion stability is improved, but smear resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A water-soluble polymer is introduced as an intermediary substance between the self-dispersible pigment and the aqueous vehicle. This polymer acts as a binding agent that adheres to the pigment particles and forms a cohesive film upon drying, thereby preventing smear and rub-off while maintaining the dispersion stability provided by the self-dispersible pigment.
Solution Approach 2:
The ink formulation creates a composite system combining self-dispersible pigment particles with water-soluble polymer molecules. This composite structure allows the pigment to provide color and dispersion stability while the polymer provides film-forming properties and smear resistance, achieving synergistic improvement of multiple properties simultaneously.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additives are added to improve print quality, then fastness is improved, but jetting performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully controls the molecular weight, concentration, and chemical structure parameters of the water-soluble polymer to optimize the balance between fastness and jetting performance. By adjusting these parameters, the polymer provides sufficient film-forming capability for good fastness while maintaining low enough viscosity and surface tension to preserve excellent jetting performance.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention pertains to an ink for inkjet printing, in particular to an aqueous ink comprising a self-dispersing pigment colorant and certain soluble polymers which enhance print quality without compromising jetting performance.