In the field of ceramic decoration, inkjet printing technology has become an important application way, it through the surface of ceramic products by spraying ink, after high temperature firing to achieve decorative effects. The performance of ceramic ink plays a key role in the entire inkjet process, in which surface tension and viscosity are important factors affecting the ink spray and coating effect. This article will explore the role of surface tension and viscosity in ceramic inkjet and introduce relevant solutions.

Ceramic ink requirements

Ceramic inks need to meet many requirements in the inkjet process. First of all, it needs to meet the needs of inkjet printing, including viscosity, surface tension, particle size distribution, etc. Secondly, after burning at high temperature, the ink should be able to show color without color difference; In addition, other parameters such as pH, solid content, and stability need to be considered.

Surface tension, viscosity action and solution in ceramic inkjet

The role of surface tension in ceramic inkjet

In the process of ceramic inkjet printing, the surface tension affects the ink spray and coating effect. When the ink is sprayed from the nozzle, the size of the surface tension will affect the shape of the ink droplet, too large surface tension may lead to the ink droplet tail, too small is easy to produce satellite ink droplet. This affects the clarity and layering of the pattern. At the same time, the surface tension also affects the spreading effect of the ink on the underglaze. If the surface tension is too small, the ink is easy to spread and separate, resulting in ink hanging problems; If it is too large, the ink will not adhere well to the underglaze. Therefore, controlling the surface tension of the ink is essential to ensure the ink spray and coating effect.

The role of viscosity in ceramic inkjet

The viscosity of ceramic ink is also an important parameter that affects the inkjet effect. The change of viscosity will lead to the change of the working voltage of the nozzle, which will affect the stability and life of the nozzle. At different temperatures, the change in viscosity may cause the ink’s injection to be unstable, and even cause problems such as broken lines and broken ink. Therefore, under different temperature conditions, it is necessary to adjust the working voltage of the nozzle in time to ensure the normal operation of the nozzle.

Surface tension, viscosity action and solution in ceramic inkjet

Solution: SITA t15 surface tensiometer

In order to meet the surface tension and viscosity requirements of ceramic inks, SITA introduced the t15 surface tensiometer. The instrument is capable of accurately measuring the dynamic surface tension values of ceramic inks within 15ms to 20s with a high degree of repeatability. Through scientific analysis of dynamic surface tension curve, the wettability of ink can be evaluated effectively and the ink formulation can be improved. In addition, combined with the compatibility of the additives with the ink, the appropriate additives can be selected according to the dynamic surface tension value, and the addition amount can be quantified and controlled, thus reducing the cost.

SITA t15 surface tensiometer can also be used to detect incoming materials, identify the differences between different batches of additives, and adjust the ratio of ink systems in a targeted manner to achieve scientific production. By controlling the surface tension and viscosity, the printing effect of ceramic inkjet can be more stable and reliable, providing higher quality assurance for the ceramic decoration industry.

Surface tension, viscosity action and solution in ceramic inkjet

In short, in the process of ceramic inkjet decoration, surface tension and viscosity are the key factors affecting the ink spray and coating effect. Through scientific testing and adjustment, you can achieve better printing results, improve product quality and market competitiveness.