The inks most used in graphic printing for different types of media and formats, are known as inkjet inks for the way in which printing is done. It is a process that sprays, using ink jet, the product on the basis on which it will be printed.

Aqueous inks
Most of its composition is water, mixed with dyes or pigments that provide color, in a wide range and variety. This type of inks are mainly used in printing on paper and cardboard supports, since in other materials there would be no adhesion. They are those used in posters, photographs, advertising in points of sale, canvases, posters, or packaging for food, as it is non-toxic inks.

Sublimation inks
This type of inks have been created specifically to penetrate polyester fabrics, forming a permanent union with the fabric, and avoiding wear on the color when washing the garment or exposing it to the sun. The process to get the design on the garment, is to print the ink on a plate of sublimation paper, which will later be placed on the fabric to transfer the color through a transfer plate. They are used for polyester textiles and objects covered with this material.

Solvent inks
The base of its composition is a volatile solvent that contains the color pigments. The result is very durable and resistant, so they are mainly used for outdoor use, since it has an approximate life of five years on plastic surfaces with high sun exposure.

Eco-solvent inks
It is a type of ink that does not contain harmful or dangerous materials for health and the environment. It has a shorter life and a lower intensity of the colors, but it is a good alternative to avoid the high contamination of the most common types of inks.

UV curing inks
These inks have a very striking property, and that is that they are kept in a liquid state in the usual way, but they react when exposed to ultraviolet light. Then, they cure and polymerize, building a very resistant and durable layer, as well as being colorful. They are suitable for a multitude of supports, even for outdoor use, due to their resistance, up to five years in any weather condition. In addition, less product is used in each print, so they are also more profitable.

Latex ink
Also called resin ink, it is composed of a combination of water, heat curing resins and additives that are responsible for fixing the pigments to the printing medium. They are similar to solvent inks, with the difference that they are non-toxic and odorless. Its main uses are to decorate walls, create murals, posters, photography, vinyl, displays, etc.

Solid ink
This type of ink is kept in a solid state naturally, with a texture similar to wax. When heated, they become liquid, at which time they can be deposited on a cold support, where they solidify instantly. The advantage is that they can be placed on any support, since they do not need absorption. The disadvantage is that they are not resistant to friction, and do not achieve a high level of detail.

Source: perugrafico.com