ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING INNOVATIONS


compromising the integrity of the packaging material. The process cures liquid UV ink in seconds using light and, due to its high processing speed, is ideal for high-throughput packaging systems. Since the ink does not soak in or evaporate as it does with continuous inkjet printing, the result remains high-contrast and does not smudge, even in high-humidity production environments. A targeted surface treatment ensures that the


ink adheres to the substrate or film, allowing it to be printed on almost any medium. Corona or plasma treatments modify the surface using an electrical charge so that the ink, in the form of tiny balls, does not roll off the material and smudge. “This results in an extremely strong bond with the substrate, a razor-sharp print image and very high scratch resistance,” explains Horvath. However, the technical effort involved is greater than with continuous inkjet systems. UV printing requires special lamps, cooling devices and the right safety measures to protect against UV radiation, among other things. In return, QR and other codes of variable sizes can be applied, regardless of the surface of the material. UV-curing ink enables high-quality printing on infusion bags, as well as on paper, cardboard, glass or metal.


THIS SIMPLE AND


continuous inkjet (CIJ) is not always suitable. “In terms of quality and efficiency, laser-


based systems offer a clear advantage because they work faster and cover larger areas,” says Horvath. However, when lasers are used to apply important information to packaging, manufacturers face new challenges: lasers generally only work on printed films because they either remove material or cause a colour change. In addition to higher investment and operating costs, laser systems also raise safety- related questions: “Protective devices and trained personnel for operation and maintenance are essential for the proper use of a laser system,” explains Horvath. The decision for or against the technology therefore depends on the infrastructure, investment capacity, personnel – and, finally, the product portfolio. “Those who market premium products may be more likely to opt for this variant than manufacturers of fast-moving consumer goods due to the higher resolution of laser printing.”


Using light to create permanent ink Laser processes enable printed packaging


COST-EFFECTIVE PROCESS IS SUITABLE WHEREVER HIGH PRINTING SPEEDS, LOW RESOLUTION AND SMALL PRINT AREAS CHARACTERISE THE PRINTING OPERATION


materials to be marked gently, thereby preserving their barrier properties. UV lasers, for example, cause a colour change in existing pigments within the packaging material, which produces the necessary contrast for legible lettering. Unlike CO or fibre lasers, the energy in UV lasers has a photochemical effect. UV lasers can process even thin films, paper or composite materials without melting or burning them. However, even with an ink-based process,


razor-sharp markings can be achieved, including on transparent packaging materials: UV- curing ink enables high printing speeds and delivers excellent print quality, again without


The economical inkjet option On the other hand, continuous inkjet printing is much less expensive, both in terms of purchase price and ongoing operation. With CIJ, ink is applied through small nozzles in the print head onto absorbent substrates such as paper or cardboard. The technology has even proven itself on smooth surfaces such as films, provided that a solvent is added to the ink beforehand to make it adhere more easily. After application, the solvent evaporates through ambient air, heat or fans – and the ink dries. It also absorbs into absorbent materials.


However, it can smudge because drying by evaporation takes time – and the ink can be subject to external influences before it dries. “This simple and cost-effective process is suitable wherever high printing speeds, low resolution and small print areas characterise the printing operation,” states Horvath. As with the other processes, the packaging in this case does not require a label – another significant step towards alternative marking methods.


FEBRUARY 2026 • KENNEDY’S CONFECTION • 41


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