Chemical Solvent
High volatility and low toxicity make a specific organic ester the preferred carrier for inks and adhesives in flexible packaging conversion. Widely known as ethyl acetate, this solvent dissolves a broad range of polymers, allowing smooth application of coatings on plastic films and foils. Its fast evaporation rate helps maintaining high run speeds on printing presses and laminating lines without leaving excessive solvent residue.
Because it has a relatively low boiling point, the drying ovens can operate at lower temperatures, reducing the thermal stress on delicate plastic films during the lamination process.
Residual Monitor
Measurement of solvent retention in the finished packaging is necessary to prevent contamination of packaged food or pharmaceutical products. Testing typically uses gas chromatography to analyze head-space samples from the packaging material. Converting operations must keep the concentration of the solvent below strict regulatory thresholds to avoid off-odors and off-flavors in the end product.
Ink Formula
Viscosity control of gravure and flexographic inks depends on the balanced evaporation of the solvent blend. Since the ester evaporates quickly, it is frequently combined with slower-drying alcohols or glycol ethers to prevent ink from drying on the printing plate before transfer. This balance ensures crisp print definition and prevents clogging of the gravure cells during long production runs.
