Kaolin improves Ink performance by increasing opacity and printability

The major inorganic pigment used in Ink is kaolin and the formulations are similar to those of paper coating and paint. Kaolin is used in ink to improve ink holdout and to extend both coloured and white pigments. The platelet shape of kaolinite reduces film permeability, which aids in the holdout of the vehicle (binder) on the surface. Fine particle size delaminated kaolin do this most effectively.

Gravure printing represents the biggest ink market for kaolin as it can accept relatively large amounts of kaolin. Kaolin extends the colorant, sharpens dot formation by imparting thixotropic and improves holdout. Kaolin is used in low viscosity inks for flexographic printing. Some kaolin is used to extend colorants and to provide thixotropic in offset printing. Silk screen printing uses relatively thick films that can tolerate the larger particles of calcined kaolin, which provides better light to improve opacity and whiteness. Surface modification of kaolin to make it hydrophobic increases its usefulness in oil-based inks.

WHY EICL?

EICL kaolin is a most effective extender pigment in printing inks, for extending the coloured pigment to optimize their consumption and also it aids in improving print gloss, minimize the printing plate wear, better ink hold out and reduce mist formation during the printing. The kaolin particle size distribution, platy particle shape, and its non-abrasiveness enable the usage of Kaolin in printing ink application.

EICL Kaolin grades are recommended in Newsprint inks, Packaging inks and Liquid inks. EICL hydrous clays are normally used as a functional filler in newsprint paste ink formulation, Gravure publication, packing ink (rotogravure) and flexographic inks.

EICL PRODUCTS

BCK – Functional filler in Newsprint Paste ink

DLC 90 -Opacifying filler in Newsprint Paste and Liquid ink

Hibrite -Functional filler for Liquid ink

Superlustre – Opacifying Filler for partial replacement of Titanium dioxide in liquid ink

BCK-Ink – As an extender in news print inks, packaging inks and liquid inks.