Temperature Sensitive Ink: Printing Methods & Suitable Materials

Temperature Sensitive Ink: Printing Methods & Suitable Materials

Temperature Sensitive Ink (also called thermochromic ink) is a functional ink that changes color reversibly or irreversibly when exposed to temperature shifts (e.g., from colored to colorless, or one hue to another). It’s widely used in anti-counterfeiting, decoration, and smart labels, categorized by temperature ranges (low: -50℃~0℃; normal: 0℃~50℃; high: >50℃) and reversibility.

Key Printing Methods

Screen Printing: The most common method, ideal for large areas (e.g., packaging, clothing) and irregular surfaces. It controls ink thickness (10~50μm) for vivid color changes, works with solvent/water-based inks, and suits small-to-large batches. Dry at <60℃ to avoid damaging thermochromic components.

Flexographic Printing: For continuous roll materials (e.g., food films, labels). Fast (up to 300m/min) for mass production, enables fine graphics (e.g., QR codes), and pairs with other functional coatings. Use low-viscosity inks and adjust plate pressure carefully.

Gravure Printing: For high-precision, large-batch needs (e.g., luxury packaging, certificates). Delivers rich colors via engraved plates, adheres well to non-absorbent materials (e.g., PET film), but has high plate costs. Dry with low-temperature air.

Digital Printing (UV inkjet/laser): For small-batch customization (e.g., custom labels). No plate required, supports variable data, but needs special low-particle inks (<100nm) and reduced UV lamp power.

Suitable Materials

Paper: Coated paper, kraft paper (for labels, certificates). Good ink absorption; avoid thin paper (<80g/m²) and use FDA-compliant inks for food packaging.

Plastics: PET, PE, PP, PVC (for packaging films, toys). Water-resistant and durable; treat low-surface-tension plastics (PE/PP) with corona or primer first.

Metals/Metal Foils: Aluminum foil, tinplate (for cans, anti-counterfeiting signs). Good heat conductivity for quick color changes; clean surfaces (de-rust/de-fat) before printing.

Textiles: Cotton, polyester (for clothing, fabrics). Use water-based inks for soft handfeel; dry at <50℃ and avoid high-temperature ironing (>40℃).

Glass/Ceramics: Glass/ceramic cups (for daily use, gifts). Use high-temperature-resistant inks (>100℃); sinter at 120~180℃ post-printing and avoid acidic cleaners.

Note: Control temperature during printing/drying (<60℃ typically), test adhesion (100+ wipes) and color stability (1000+ temperature cycles), and choose eco-friendly inks (low-VOC, heavy-metal-free) for food/children’s products.

Print Area (Guangdong) Technology Co., Ltd.

http://www.printarea.cn
H01, Pingzhou Guangping International Trade Park, Guicheng Street, Nanhai District, Foshan City

Tel.: +86-18026391301

MAIL:yinya102@enyyink.com