Oligomers are molecules that consist of a few repeating units, and they are the main components of UV curable inks. UV curable inks are inks that can be dried and cured instantly by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which makes them ideal for high-speed printing and coating processes. Oligomers play a crucial role in determining the properties and performance of UV curable inks, such as viscosity, adhesion, flexibility, durability, and color.
There are three main classes of UV curable oligomers, namely epoxy acrylates, polyester acrylates, and urethane acrylates. Each class has its own characteristics and applications, depending on the type of substrate, the curing method, and the desired quality of the final product.
Epoxy acrylates are oligomers that have epoxy groups in their backbone, and acrylate groups at their ends. They are known for their high reactivity, low viscosity, and good chemical resistance. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as poor flexibility, low adhesion, and yellowing tendency. Epoxy acrylates are suitable for printing on rigid substrates, such as metal, glass, and plastic, and for applications that require high gloss and hardness.
Polyester acrylates are oligomers that have polyester groups in their backbone, and acrylate groups at their ends. They are known for their moderate reactivity, low shrinkage, and good flexibility. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as high viscosity, low chemical resistance, and odor emission. Polyester acrylates are suitable for printing on flexible substrates, such as paper, film, and fabric, and for applications that require good adhesion and elasticity.
Urethane acrylates are oligomers that have urethane groups in their backbone, and acrylate groups at their ends. They are known for their low reactivity, high viscosity, and excellent flexibility. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as high cost, high oxygen inhibition, and low cure speed. Urethane acrylates are suitable for printing on various substrates, such as wood, leather, and rubber, and for applications that require high durability and abrasion resistance.
In conclusion, oligomers are essential for the formulation and performance of UV curable inks, and they can be classified into three main classes, namely epoxy acrylates, polyester acrylates, and urethane acrylates. Each class has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the application and the substrate. The development of oligomers and UV ink is an ongoing process, and new types of oligomers and curing methods are being explored to meet the increasing demands of the ink industry.
Post time: Jan-04-2024
