The Impact of Gravure and Flexo Inks on Sustainability in Printing

The choice of ink for printing determines the environmental impact to a great extent. Therefore, in the printing of high-volume jobs, two basic ink types are used extensively: gravure and flexo inks. Both kinds of inks have their set of advantages and disadvantages, but considering their contribution to sustainability in printing has become an essential aspect of modern production practices. In this blog, we will find out how gravure and flexo inks affect sustainability, the environment, and the wider printing context.

Gravure Inks 

Gravure printing is a high-quality, high-speed process often used for packaging, publications, and decorative prints. While gravure is known for its precision and rich colour reproduction, it has long been associated with the use of solvent-based inks. Solvent-based gravure inks can emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to air pollution and pose risks to both human health and the environment. Over the years, the printing industry has been making significant strides in reducing these emissions.

To enhance the sustainability of gravure printing, many ink manufacturers have moved towards developing eco-friendly ink alternatives. Water-based and UV-cured gravure inks are gaining popularity as they reduce the release of VOCs and are less hazardous. These new inks maintain the premium print quality for which gravure is known, yet with much lower environmental impact. Gravure printing can therefore continue meeting high-quality standards with this much more eco-conscious process.

Flexo Inks 

Historically, flexographic printing has been considered a more sustainable alternative to gravure since it is often used for packaging, labels, and corrugated cardboard. The primary reason for this is that flexo inks are typically water-based or UV-curable, which results in much lower VOC emissions compared to solvent-based gravure inks. Besides, flexographic printing uses a wide range of substrates, including recycled materials, which makes it more versatile and sustainable by the types of products to be produced.

At the same time, flexo ink technologies have been in development too. Manufacturers worked out a number of inks boasting increased resistance, better reproduction of colors, and less waste. Among all, water-based inks have won a significant position due to their lack of harmful chemical ingredients, toxicity, and easier disposal compared to conventional solvent-based ones. In contrast to traditional solvent-based inks, water-based flexo inks thus offer a much greener alternative, answering the latest demands for eco-friendly package solutions.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the advances in ink technology, both gravure and flexo printing processes still face sustainability challenges. For gravure, the switch to water-based and UV inks has been a game-changer, but it requires significant investment in new equipment and processes. In flexo, the more sustainable inks can be water-based, though overall environmental impact may also depend on energy consumption or waste management during production.

Both industries need ongoing innovation in the development of inks that reduce impact on the environment while maintaining a high-quality standard. Similarly, the printing industry is called upon to improve recycling and cleaner production processes for better sustainable development.

Conclusion

Gravure and flexo inks also feature prominently in shaping up printing’s sustainable future. Growing demand for eco-friendly products, combined with the continuous improvement of water-based, UV-cured, and low-VOC inks, opens the doorway to exciting opportunities that may help minimize the impact that printing operations have on the environment. DIC Asia Pacific serves ink solutions for high-value-added printing while responding to social demands for environmental care and safety.

To learn more about sustainable printing solutions, Contact DIC Asia Pacific today to discover how our range of inks can help your business achieve its sustainability goals.