Pigmented Jet-Inks for Textile Applications

Abstract

Textile printing via an ink-jet process is attractive for several reasons:- faster design processes, efficient sampling and the ability for short run production. Development of jet-inks for use in these processes is challenging for the ink formulator due to restrictions in viscosity, particle size and the need for highly reliable jetting. Several authors have described jet-inks for textiles using dye-based approaches. These inks often require post-treatment to achieve satisfactory levels of fastness to washing. As a further consequence, un-fixed dye may have to be removed by a post-washing process. Furthermore, dye selection may have to be altered from substrate to substrate to achieve sufficient levels of fixation. However, much textile is printed conventionally (e.g by screen) with pigmented ink products. These inks generally offer strong resistance properties to water, heat and light as well as providing satisfactory hand and may be applied to a wide range of fabrics.This paper highlights how a series of jet-inks can perform in a similar manner to traditional textile inks through adaptation of chemistries found in screen textile inks. The jet-inks are water-based, pigmented and latex dispersed. Utilization of a cross-linkable emulsion allows for excellent water-fastness and resistance properties when thermally cured. Colour strength is optimised through usage of specifically designed pigments.