In order to obtain the best printing effect, you should be familiar with the commonly used additives

1) Colorants are used to enhance the intensity of the ink’s color. Their concentration should generally be kept between 0% and 30%. Exceeding this range can lead to a reduction in the binder content, which may negatively affect adhesion and wear resistance.

2) pH stabilizers help maintain the pH level of water-based inks within the ideal range of 8.0 to 9.5. This ensures stable ink performance during printing and also helps regulate viscosity and dilute the ink when necessary.

3) Slow-drying agents are used to control the drying speed of the ink. They help prevent premature drying on the printing plate, reducing issues like ink blocking or screen printing defects. The typical dosage is between 0% and 10% of the total ink volume. However, excessive use can result in incomplete drying, leading to smudging or unpleasant odors on printed materials.

4) Diluents are primarily used to reduce the color intensity of the ink. Their usage is not strictly limited, but adding large amounts may slightly increase the ink’s viscosity. In such cases, a small amount of thinning agent can be added simultaneously to balance the consistency.

5) Thinners are mainly used to lower the ink’s viscosity. The recommended amount is typically within 3% of the total ink volume. This helps maintain color depth and pH stability. When adding thinners, it's important to do so gradually while stirring to avoid making the ink too thin. Overuse or using hard tap water can introduce air bubbles, requiring the addition of a defoamer at that point.

6) Foaming issues in water-based inks often occur due to the use of water as a diluent. During emulsion polymerization, surfactants are commonly used to lower surface tension, which can contribute to foaming problems if not properly managed.