trükivärve

Trükivärve refers to inks specifically formulated for use in printing processes. These inks are complex mixtures, typically composed of pigments or dyes for color, a binder or vehicle that carries the pigment and adheres it to the substrate, and various additives to control properties like viscosity, drying time, and gloss. The type of trükivärve used depends heavily on the printing method, such as offset lithography, flexography, gravure, or screen printing, as well as the material being printed on, known as the substrate.

Common substrates include paper, cardboard, plastics, metals, and textiles. Each printing process requires inks with distinct characteristics. For instance, offset inks need to be thixotropic, meaning they flow under pressure but thicken when not under stress, preventing them from spreading too much on the printing plate. Flexographic inks, used for packaging and labels, need to dry very quickly. Gravure inks, for high-volume printing of magazines and packaging, are typically solvent-based and designed for high-speed drying. Screen printing inks can be quite viscous, allowing them to be applied in thicker layers for opaque and durable prints.

The choice of pigments is crucial for achieving the desired color, opacity, and lightfastness. Binders, often resins or polymers, play a vital role in ink durability and adhesion. Additives can enhance rub resistance, prevent foaming, or control the ink's interaction with the printing equipment and substrate. Trükivärve are an essential component of the printing industry, enabling the mass production of newspapers, books, packaging, and countless other printed materials that are integral to modern life.