Establishment of the “Nano Environmentally Friendly Printing Ink” School-Enterprise R&D Center at Aman (Xinxiang) Transfer Printing Technology Co., Ltd. in 2024

Ink is a complex system composed of dyes and pigments dispersed in a specific liquid carrier. These dyes and pigments are typically solid particles that are insoluble in liquids. The central aspect of the ink preparation process is the dispersion of these dyes and pigments, transforming them into fine particles under external forces and evenly distributing them within the continuous phase to achieve a stable suspension.

This process requires the collaboration of resins, dyes and pigments, and solvents, along with the use of wetting dispersants to enhance dispersion efficiency and storage stability. Dispersants prevent the dyes and pigments from settling and agglomerating during storage, which can impact the application process. Furthermore, effective dispersion improves the gloss, hiding power, and rheology of the coating.

However, once the shear stress in the system diminishes or disappears, the finely dispersed particles of dyes and pigments may recombine, leading to agglomeration or aggregation.

To address this challenge, Aman (Xinxiang) Transfer Printing Technology Co., Ltd., in collaboration with the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Henan Normal University, has established a dedicated research team. Their focus is on addressing the “secondary aggregation phenomenon after the dispersion of dye and pigment particles.” This research aims to solve this common yet significant issue in ink production, enhancing ink stability and driving reform and innovation within China’s ink industry. These efforts are expected to usher in a new technological revolution.