The release of a new plant-based ink from Ricoh also makes it the first of its kind in the mainstream graphics and packing print industry.
The new ink is a derivative of the oil-based ink made for the décor printing sector and has been created to deliver top-quality rub resistance and set-off performance for corrugated and carton boards.
The derivative was made after a collaboration with Olbrich, a German equipment manufacturer which supplies solutions for areas like wallpaper production, floor coverings, and films/foils.
Director of industrial printing and graphic communications at Ricoh Europe, Graham Kennedy, says: “Brand owners and printer manufacturers are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact and applying sustainable practices wherever possible.
“With our new plant-based ink they can seamlessly introduce positive changes that make a big difference without impacting their high quality printed results.”
With our new plant-based ink they can seamlessly introduce positive changes that make a big difference without impacting their high quality printed results.”
As a sustainable and eco-friendly ink, the plant oil component means the ink is quick drying, odour-free, and biodegradable.
With a longer ‘open time’ print heads are easier to clean and less likely to clog, making the environmentally friendly option reliable and capable of high performance.
With no heat required to fix or dry the ink and a low energy consumption thanks to its absorbent qualities, Ricoh hopes the ink will be an effective solution for clients and printers.
With more companies looking at ways to reduce carbon, waste, and non-eco-friendly materials, changes into more organic alternatives such as this are a great path to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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