Solvent Inkjet Printing

Solvent-based inks allow you to print on a wider range of substrates than water-based dye or pigment inks. They are also more durable and weather resistant when used for exterior signage. The process requires mixing pigments and a solvent to create liquid ink. The printer head then transfers the liquid onto a substrate. As the solvent evaporates a hard layer of ink remains. Solvents are toxic and because of the nature of the inks they are more difficult to work with and require extra care in their handling. Eco-solvent inks are available now which are more eco-friendly. However, they are limited in what they can print on. Solvent prints are waterproof and have long outdoor life. In recent years, solvent processes are becoming obsolete, with new UV technology offering sharper images, greater detail, wider colour ranges, printability, and faster and safer printing.