What Are the Common Types of Inkjet Substrates?
In inkjet printing, the substrate refers to the surface on which ink is applied. The nature of the substrate significantly affects ink adhesion, drying speed, and print durability. Different materials require different ink types and printhead technologies. Understanding substrate categories helps optimize print performance and select the right equipment and consumables.
Main Substrate Categories
1. Porous Substrates
Examples: Paper, uncoated cardboard, wood
- Absorbs ink quickly
- Works well with water-based or dye-based inks
- Fast drying but may lead to ink bleeding if not controlled
2. Semi-Porous Substrates
Examples: Coated paper, corrugated board, treated wood
- Moderate absorption
- Suitable for both water-based and solvent inks
- Improved print clarity over porous materials
3. Non-Porous Substrates
Examples: Plastic films (PP, PE, PET), glass, metals, foil
- Ink stays on surface—requires fast-drying solvent or UV inks
- Adhesion depends on surface energy and ink formulation
- Often used in high-speed packaging and product coding
Detailed Substrate Types
Plastic (PE, PP, PET, PVC)
- Common in beverage, cosmetics, and food packaging
- Low surface energy—may require pretreatment or specialized ink
- Best with fast-drying solvent or UV-curable inks
Glass and Ceramics
- Very smooth, non-absorbent
- Requires pigmented or UV inks for high contrast and permanence
- Often used in pharmaceuticals and luxury goods
Metal (Aluminum, Steel)
- Used in cable, can, and electronics marking
- Demands good adhesion and abrasion resistance
- Often coded with CIJ printers using solvent-based inks
Films and Foils
- Flexible packaging (snack bags, sachets, wraps)
- Low-absorption, sometimes heat-sensitive
- Ideal for TTO or UV inkjet printing
Paper-Based Packaging
- Cartons, shipping boxes, bags
- Works well with TIJ and DOD using water-based or pigmented inks
Ink Selection Based on Substrate
| Substrate | Recommended Ink Type |
|---|---|
| Paper / Cardboard | Water-based, dye, or pigmented inks |
| Plastic Films | Solvent-based, UV-curable inks |
| Glass | Pigmented or UV-curable inks |
| Metal | Fast-dry solvent inks |
| Foils / Laminates | TTO ribbons, UV ink |
FAQs
- Can one printer handle all substrates? Not always. Some systems (e.g., CIJ or UV) are more versatile, but ink compatibility remains critical.
- What if ink won’t stick to my substrate? You may need a different ink, surface pretreatment (like corona or plasma), or slower line speed to improve adhesion.
Conclusion
Selecting the right inkjet substrate is essential for achieving durable, legible, and high-quality prints. Understand your material properties and match them with the correct ink type and printer technology. Need help identifying the best printing solution for your packaging material? Contact Cheef Inkjet at sales@cheef.cn today!
