RICOH introduces first plant-based green ink

Here is a point further reduce the environmental impact of inks as RICOH announces the introduction of plant-based ink – the first-of- its-kind for mainstream graphics and packaging print. The ink is a derivative of the oil-based ink created for the décor printing sector as part of Ricoh’s collaboration with German equipment manufacturer Olbrich. It has been developed to deliver excellent rub resistance and set-off performance for corrugated brown and white boards, as well as carton board. The plant oil component creates a sustainable and environmentally-friendly ink that it is Quick drying, Odour-free, Biodegradable and Not water base.

The print heads are easier to clean and less likely to clog as ‘open time’ is much longer. This helps enhance jetting reliability, performance, and printhead life. Low ink consumption is also enabled as the same optical density is achievable using 50 percent less ink. According to a source from the company, brand owners and printer manufacturers are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact and applying sustainable practices wherever possible. With the new plant-based ink they can seamlessly introduce positive changes that make a big difference without impacting their high quality printed results.