As we were telling you recently, the German offset ink and acrylic varnish manufacturer Epple has developed a new range of antimicrobial varnishes which, thanks to its composition, particularly in silver nanoparticles, allows the non-proliferation of microbes, viruses and bacteria.
Japanese press manufacturer Fujifilm announced at the beginning of September the deployment of this varnish on its inkjet presses in association with Epple. Successful trials were carried out on a Jet Press at Fujifilm's Print Technology Centre in Brussels. The manufacturer explains that the coating proved effective in killing up to 99.9% of bacteria.
The coating called Finishfit Microbe Protect 2400 contains silver nanoparticles anchored in the coating film. When activated by moisture or when touched, the silver nanoparticles release positively charged silver ions that reduce the number of bacteria and viruses on the surface of the lacquer. The effect is constant and long-lasting because the silver nanoparticles themselves are not released and cannot be removed from the dried coating.
A varnish used for everyday products
Fujifilm says the varnish is ideal for everyday printed products that are likely to be handled by several people. These can include playing cards, magazines, restaurant menus, and packaging of all kinds, including pharmaceutical packaging. Paper-cardboard and plastic films are among the materials that can be printed.
