company news about A New Benchmark for Green Printing: How UV Technology Helps Printing Plants Solve the Problem of VOCs Emission Reduction

A New Benchmark for Green Printing: How UV Technology Helps Printing Plants Solve the Problem of VOCs Emission Reduction

With the nation's continued efforts to control air pollution, the printing industry, as a key sector for volatile organic compound (VOCs) management, is facing unprecedented environmental challenges. From the full implementation of the "Emission Standard for Air Pollutants in the Printing Industry" to the stringent VOCs emission targets imposed by various regions, "green transformation" is no longer an option, but a mandatory question for the survival and development of printing plants. Among numerous process innovation solutions, ultraviolet curing (UV) technology, with its near-zero emission characteristics, is becoming the core engine for printing plants to meet standards and upgrade.

I. Tracing the Source: The "Pollution Discharge" Pain Points of Traditional Processes

Traditional solvent-based printing relies on the evaporation of solvents (such as alcohol, ethyl acetate, etc.) to dry the ink layer. During this process, approximately 50% - 70% of the solvent is converted into VOCs and released into the air. To meet standards, printing plants often need to invest heavily in end-of-pipe treatment facilities (such as RTOs, activated carbon adsorption, etc.), which not only have high energy consumption but also face the pressure of secondary pollution control.

II. Breaking the Mold: The Environmental "Killer App" of UV Technology

UV curing technology differs fundamentally from traditional drying methods. Its environmental advantages are mainly reflected in the following three dimensions:

1. Source Reduction: From "Volatile Emissions" to "Polymerization"

UV inks are mainly composed of oligomers, monomers, and photoinitiators. Under ultraviolet light, the ink undergoes an instantaneous photochemical reaction, changing from a liquid to a solid state.

• Nearly Zero Volatility: Unlike solvent-based inks, UV inks do not contain volatile solvents. During the curing process, monomers directly participate in the chemical reaction and remain in the ink film. VOC emissions are typically less than 1%, cutting off the source of pollution.
• High Solids Content: The 100% solids content means that every drop of ink is converted into product, with no waste.

2. Process Control: Say Goodbye to Ozone and Heat Radiation

Traditional mercury lamp UV systems produce ozone during operation, requiring complex ventilation systems. With the widespread adoption of UV LED curing technology, environmental performance has further improved:

• No ozone emissions: UV LEDs use narrow wavelengths (such as 365nm and 395nm), producing no short-wave ultraviolet light, thus avoiding the ionization of oxygen in the air to generate ozone.
• Significantly reduced energy consumption: UV LED systems are only turned on during printing, with zero energy consumption in standby mode, saving over 70% energy compared to traditional thermal drying systems.

3. Simplified end-of-pipe treatment and reduced overall costs:

Due to extremely low source emissions, manufacturers using all-UV production lines can significantly reduce their reliance on end-of-pipe treatment equipment. In many regions, using low-VOC inks that meet standards (UV inks are typically far below standard values) can qualify for policy benefits such as environmental tax reductions and exemptions from off-peak production.

III. Performance Upgrade: A Two-Way Race Towards Environmental Protection and Quality

UV technology not only solves the "emissions" problem but also enhances product added value:

• Instant Drying: Printed products are finished immediately, eliminating the need for drying time and significantly shortening delivery time.
• Strong Physical and Chemical Properties: The UV layer possesses extremely high wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and scratch resistance, making it ideal for packaging, labeling, and electronic product applications.
• Wide Compatibility: Whether it's non-absorbent materials like PET and PVC, or glass and metal, UV technology provides excellent adhesion.

Choosing UV is choosing the future. With increasingly stringent environmental regulations, upgrading and transformation for printing plants is imperative. Shenzhen Super-curing Opto-Electronic CO., Ltd. is committed to providing end-to-end solutions, from high-efficiency UV LED curing systems to professional process support. We not only help customers achieve VOCs emission standards but also help companies accelerate their green development and win the favor of more brand clients.