DIC Corporation - Printing Material | Packaging Material | Flexo Printing Solutions

Every package on a store shelf relies on a precise balance of materials and processes, but few elements influence print quality as directly as ink. In flexographic printing, ink is not just a colorant—it is a functional component that affects speed, consistency, and the final appearance of printed products. Understanding what these inks are and how they support printing helps explain why flexography is widely used across packaging and labeling applications.   Understanding flexographic printing Flexographic printing, commonly known as flexo printing, is a rotary printing process that uses flexible relief plates. These plates transfer ink onto a wide range of substrates, including paper, plastic films, foil, and corrugated board. Because the process is fast and adaptable, it is especially suited for high-volume packaging production.   In this system, inks must perform reliably under continuous, high-speed conditions. That requirement shapes how flexo inks are formulat...

Every printed package carries more than just a brand message—it also carries chemical substances that can affect recycling systems, the environment, and human health. As sustainability becomes a core requirement rather than an optional feature, attention has shifted from packaging materials to the inks used on them. Understanding how sustainable packaging inks work helps explain why they are considered a safer and more responsible alternative in modern packaging.   What packaging inks are made of To understand sustainability in inks, it is important to first know what conventional packaging inks contain. Most inks are made up of four main components: Pigments that provide color Binders that help the ink adhere to surfaces Solvents that keep the ink fluid during printing Additives that improve drying, durability, or resistance Traditional inks often rely on petroleum-based solvents and heavy metal pigments. These substances can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs)...