The New Frontier
Inkjet printing
has been called the "new frontier" in textile printing as it offers
numerous advantages in operational efficiency, environmental impact and ease of
use. The ink in an Inkjet printer is the most important component of the
printing process. Its chemistry and formulation not only determine the printing
quality but also the jetting characteristics.
The technology
involved in digital printing has completely transformed the textile industry in
particular by its capability to print quickly and create almost every conceivable
color. However, ink penetration, along with various problems regarding quality,
can occasionally still be worrisome. However, researchers are continually
making strides in developing superior inks that are superior to inks previously
used by conventional printing methods.
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| Dressing in Digital Prints Image Source: Ponoko |
Most of this
research concerns problems relating to color and the numerous pre-treatment
technologies that ensure proper jetting behavior and color fastness. There have
also been significant strides made in developing environmentally-friendly
universal inks that are capable of printing on almost all of the various forms
of textile substrate.
The process of
digitally printing fabrics has rapidly evolved over the past few decades
creating new opportunities for printers, designers and regular consumers. An
important component of the technology is the ink itself. The Chinese and
Egyptians invented carbon-residue ink around 2500 BC. The process was improved
by the first century AD by burning oil mixed with gum or water. Since then,
there has been continual improvement in the development of color ink until
today when modern technology continues to produce better inks every year.
Adhesion and Cohesion
There are two
important properties for the different types of today's ink: adhesion and
cohesion. Adhesion refers to the capability of the ink to adhere or stick to
different materials. Cohesion involves the capability of the ink to hold together
properly without separating. Both of these properties involve the chemical
nature of the pigment particles, especially considering that their ability to
disperse is based on how much force is required to send the ink in a continuous
stream so each particle becomes completely encased by the substrate and doesn't
contact other pigment particles.
One of the most interesting
aspects about using digital printing on textiles is the enormously wide array
of different markets where it can be used. Historically, traditional rotary
printers applied standard graphic printers to apply inks to fabrics because of
the high cost of rotary screen engraving. When digital inks were introduced,
many users began to see cost savings in addition to other benefits. In
addition, new applications became apparent in addition to
textiles including signs, banners, flags and even leather and home furnishings.
Sampling
Sampling costs
have also played a major role in in the success of digital printing fabrics.
Printing patterns on both fabric and paper now compares favorably with
traditional screen printing. Prior to the introduction of digital textile
printing, the process of sampling was a costly and time-consuming process that
could last for weeks. Digital textile printing has reduced this process down to
as little as only a few hours today.
Additional markets
for digital inkjet printing have been developed as well as innovative software
tools, insuring that the inkjet printing industry will continue to be be an
even more valuable tool for companies to use not only today but in the future
as well.
This article was
written and contributed by Erryn Deane from Needham Ink
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