Microstructured, metallized UV-cured coatings commonly are used to provide decorative effects on packaging through cold foils, hot stamp foils and coated film appliques. While decorative packaging film products can produce eye-catching optical effects that integrate well into existing supply chains, recent trends toward recyclability and sustainability have caused film-based … [Read more...] about Improving Recyclability of Paperboard Packaging with Decorative Coatings
Inks & Coatings
Improving UV Coating Results with Corona and Plasma Surface Preparation
By Mark Plantier, Enercon Industries UV coatings are a great choice for high-value applications in which scratch resistance and surface performance are essential. While traditional UV lamps are still used, the advancement of LED curing technology has improved operational efficiencies for numerous applications. This article will review the importance of properly preparing … [Read more...] about Improving UV Coating Results with Corona and Plasma Surface Preparation
Impress Me
Many definitions for the word “print” include “impress” or “impression.” While the artistic side of UV printing has always amazed me, I am more impressed with functional products, such as sensors and printed electronics that can be manufactured with UV printing. If the title to Shania Twain’s song “That Don’t Impress Me Much” still comes to mind when you think of UV printing, … [Read more...] about Impress Me
Sustainability of Energy-Curable Inks and Coatings
By Dianna Brodine, managing editor, UV+EB Technology Brand owners and consumers care about packaging. Whether it’s plastic pop rings or understuffed cardboard boxes from online retailers, consumers are taking note – and calling out brand owners for their lack of environmental awareness. As this affects the bottom line, brand owners are in turn putting pressure on their supply … [Read more...] about Sustainability of Energy-Curable Inks and Coatings
Photoinitiated Addition Cure Silicone Release Coatings
Editor’s Note: The author is no longer with Momentive Performance Materials. For questions, email rickeckberg@nc.rr.com. By Richard P. Eckberg, Momentive Performance Materials Silicone (polydimethylsiloxane) polymers are unique materials that are chemically inert and of low polarity that remain fluid at temperatures as low as -120° C and retain useful properties at … [Read more...] about Photoinitiated Addition Cure Silicone Release Coatings