Wax Additives for Solvent-Based Printing Inks

Solvent-based printing inks are widely used in packaging, labels, and industrial printing. While these inks offer high color strength, they can face surface issues such as smudging, poor rub resistance, and inconsistent gloss. Incorporating wax additives helps overcome these challenges.

Key Benefits of Wax Additives

1. Improved Slip: Reduces drag during printing, ensuring smooth ink transfer.

2. Enhanced Rub Resistance: Prevents smearing and enhances print durability.

3. Surface Smoothness: Improves gloss and tactile feel, giving a premium finish.

Technical Notes

Commonly used waxes include oxidized polyethylene and microcrystalline waxes, selected for their compatibility with resin systems such as nitrocellulose, acrylic, or epoxy-modified inks. The right dosage should be determined through lab testing to match each ink system’s specific requirements.

A label printing company added a specialized micronized PE wax to their solvent-based ink and reported a significant improvement in rub resistance and smoother finish without affecting color saturation.

Enhance your solvent-based inks with our high-performance wax additives. Contact our technical team today for customized formulation recommendations and product samples.