Matte UV Flexo Ink
Matte UV Flexo Ink is a UV-curable flexographic ink formulated to produce a low-gloss surface (typically 5–20 GU at 60° angle) on non-absorbent substrates. The matte effect is generated through a controlled micro-rough surface structure formed during curing, typically achieved by incorporating matting agents such as silica particles (2–6 µm) or by using phase-separation oligomer systems.
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Product Introduction
Composition and Formulation Structure
Oligomers (30–50%)
Typically urethane acrylates or polyester acrylates. These determine film flexibility and adhesion. Urethane systems are often selected for film applications due to their elongation properties.
Reactive Monomers (20–40%)
Low-odor monomers such as IBOA or TPGDA are used to control viscosity (200–800 mPa·s) and reduce volatile emissions.
Photoinitiators (5–10%)
Low migration/odor types, with absorption peaks matched to 365–395 nm UV lamps to balance curing speed and migration risk.
Pigments (10–20%)
Organic or inorganic pigments (< 1 µm) to ensure stable dispersion and consistent color density in flexo plates.
Matte UV flexo ink is used on treated non-porous substrates, where surface energy must be controlled:
BOPP film: ≥ 38 dyn/cm (corona treated)
PET film: ≥ 40 dyn/cm for stable adhesion
PE film: often requires primer or higher treatment (>42 dyn/cm)
Paperboard: coated grades allow better matte uniformity than uncoated surfaces
Low surface energy (<36 dyn/cm) can cause uneven ink distribution, leading to inconsistent gloss and patchy matte areas.
Industrial Printing Process
Label Printing (Pressure-Sensitive Labels)
Anilox: 400–500 LPI, volume 2.5–3.5 cm³/m²
Printing speed: 80–150 m/min
UV lamp: 120–160 W/cm
In label production, matte ink is often used as a top layer to create contrast with gloss varnishes. Registration tolerance must be controlled within ±0.1 mm to maintain visual consistency.
Flexible Packaging (Laminated Films)
Ink applied on reverse printing layer or surface print depending on design
Lamination performed after curing, with adhesive coating weight 2–3 g/m²
Matte surfaces can affect lamination bond strength due to reduced contact area, so adhesive selection and pressure (2–4 bar nip pressure) must be adjusted.
Carton and Folding Box Printing
Substrate: coated paperboard (200–350 gsm)
Ink coverage: solid areas or selective matte finishes
In carton printing, matte ink reduces glare under retail lighting conditions (typically 500–1000 lux), improving readability of printed text.
Application Scenarios
Customization Options
FAQ:
Why does the matte effect become uneven during printing?
Uneven matte appearance is usually caused by inconsistent ink transfer or substrate surface energy variation:
Anilox wear or contamination changes ink volume delivery (±0.5 cm³/m² variation can affect gloss)
Substrate treatment below 38 dyn/cm leads to poor wetting and localized leveling
Ink viscosity drifting outside 300–900 mPa·s alters flow behavior
These factors create visible gloss differences across the printed area.
How does curing energy affect matte performance?
Curing energy directly influences surface structure formation:
At 120–150 mJ/cm², rapid crosslinking locks in micro-roughness → lower gloss
Above 180–200 mJ/cm², excessive flow occurs before curing → smoother surface → gloss increases
Lamp intensity should be monitored to stay within 80–100% of rated output to maintain consistency.
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