Prepressin

Prepressin is a synthetic additive used in the prepress stage of commercial printing. It stabilizes pigment dispersions, regulates rheology, and improves color fidelity during proofing and plate making. It forms transient interactions with resin components to reduce ink spread on non-absorptive substrates and sharpen edges.

Discovery and development: First reported by the Institute of Printing Technology in 2010, Prepressin has since been optimized by industry laboratories. It is produced by standard organic synthesis from economical precursors and is scalable for large-scale ink production.

Chemical properties: Prepressin is a low-to-mid molecular-weight organic compound with aromatic rings and heteroatoms that support hydrogen bonding. It is available as a free base or salt and is typically stored protected from light due to photosensitivity. Typical ink formulations use 0.05–0.5% by weight.

Applications: Used in offset and digital inks, especially for proofs and short runs where color reproduction is critical. Benefits include more consistent drying, improved ink transfer, and greater resistance to fading under UV exposure in proofing.

Safety and regulation: Toxicology data are limited. Prepressin is not approved for food contact and is handled as a chemical additive with standard industrial hygiene. Some studies report potential dermal or ocular irritation; long-term effects require further research.

See also: Prepress; Ink additives; Colour management; Printing ink stability.