Flexible packaging converters across Asia and Europe are accelerating migration from solvent-based to waterborne ink systems, driven by food-contact legislation and retailer chemical management programs.
The binder — not the pigment alone — governs adhesion to treated films, resolubility on press, dot gain and heat-seal compatibility. Waterborne PU dispersions in the YT-IK series are tuned for low viscosity, high pigment loading and fast drying on gravure and flexo lines.
Migration risk assessment now sits at the center of ink qualification. Resin selection, additive packages and cure conditions must be documented for brand audits. APEO-free, low-odor binders with stable pH profiles simplify compliance testing.
We see strong growth in digitally printed short runs as well, where inkjet-ready PUD binders must combine jetting stability with rub and water resistance on coated paper and film stocks.
