Thermochromic offset ink – paper interactions and print biodegradation

Abstract

This study examines the adhesion and interactions between thermochromic offset ink and different papers as well their role in papers and prints biodegradation.  Obtained results show that biodegradation of prints depends upon the adhesion, i.e. lower adhesion will result in reduction of biodegradation rate, while the strong adhesion will result in better paper degradation. Reactions between paper and thermochromic ink will form different prints properties due to different affinity of paper for ink while interactions between them will affect the prints biodegradation. When the ink is applied on paper, the polar interactions of paper will react with polar interactions of ink. Smaller amount of polar components of paper will give a print with polar character.