Its new AquaLiona ink prints on various surfaces ranging from BOPP, PET, PVDC coated films to nylon. And it works well with a wide range of lamination adhesives such as solvent-based, water-based and solvent-less types, said the company.
AquaLiona is also said to be the world's first water-based flexo system capable of withstanding temperatures up to 250º F. This is achieved by the addition of a hardener that enhances resin durability which allows the ink to be used for retort food packaging applications.
On-press stability
Compared with conventional flexo inks, which can suffer discrepancies in print reproducibility and uniformity when applied to film, the AquaLiona series improves print resolubility and on-press stability, claims the company.
In addition, its superior bonding strength is said to provide excellent transfer of inks from plates to films while its low solvent (alcohol / glycol) retention and ability to handle microwave reheating makes retort-stable AquaLiona ideal for dry, oily or wet food packaging applications.
The new water-based system provides an excellent barrier to odor, particularly ammonia, claims Toyo Ink Group.
The company’s packaging inks marketing manager, Shingo Harako said: “Flexographic and gravure printing processes can coexist in the flexible packaging sector. Flexo printing technology is suitable for short-run jobs where the end-user is looking to reduce excess inventory or waste."
High purity packaging
"And, as the majority of converters use flexo presses in the US, Toyo's new AquaLiona product is sure to open up new growth avenues for converters not only to become greener, but also meet the high-purity packaging needs of their customers."
The company said it will continue to focus its efforts on the development of environmentally compatible products such as water-based inks, solvent-recycling inks and solvent-less lamination adhesives for the packaging sector. This will remain part of its commitment to reduce the environmental footprint of its products and operations, it said.
Toyo Ink will be showcasing the new AquaLiona series at Pack Expo Las Vegas, Las Vegas Convention Center, Nevada, from October 5 - 7, 2009.