Pigmentblekk

Pigmentblekk, or pigment ink, refers to inks in which color is produced by solid pigment particles dispersed in a liquid carrier. In contrast to dye-based inks, pigmentblekk uses insoluble pigments that remain suspended rather than dissolving. They are widely used in inkjet printers for professional photographs, artwork reproductions, and archival documents, where long-term stability is important.

Composition and mechanism: The pigment particles are typically nano- to micron-sized and are stabilized with dispersants and surfactants to prevent settling. A binder or polymer film-former helps the particles adhere to the paper when the ink dries. The carrier is usually water-based, though solvent or oil-based pigment inks exist for specialty applications. Printer manufacturers tailor pigmentblekk formulations to work with specific print heads and media coatings.

Advantages: Pigmentblekk generally offers superior lightfastness and water resistance, contributing to better archival durability and resistance to fading when exposed to light. They provide crisp, sharp text and sturdy blacks, and can deliver a broad color gamut on appropriate coated media. On suitable substrates, pigment inks can resist smudging and show strong longevity in display conditions.

Limitations and considerations: They are typically more expensive than dye inks and may require high-quality, often coated papers to realize their full potential. On some uncoated or non-ideal media, pigment inks may appear less saturated or exhibit slower drying times. In some printer systems, pigmentblekk can be more prone to nozzle clogging if pigment dispersion is not properly maintained.

Applications: Used in professional photo printing, fine art reproduction, and archival documentation where long-term stability, color fidelity, and durability are priorities.