How Water-Based Gravure Inks Improve Print Quality & Sustainability
                      
How Water-Based Gravure Inks Improve Print Quality & 
Sustainability 
Gravure printing is widely used for high-volume packaging, publications, and decorative 
printing. Traditionally, solvent-based inks have been the standard due to their fast-drying times 
and high-quality results. However, concerns over environmental impact and regulatory 
restrictions have led to a growing interest in water-based gravure inks. These inks offer an eco-
friendly alternative without compromising print quality. 
 
Improved Print Quality with Water-Based Inks 
1. Consistent Color Reproduction 
Water-based gravure inks are formulated to provide vibrant and consistent color reproduction. 
With advancements in pigment dispersion technology, these inks offer improved stability, 
ensuring uniform ink distribution across the substrate. This results in high-resolution prints with 
minimal variations in color intensity. 
 
2. Better Adhesion on Various Substrates 
Modern water-based inks have been designed to adhere effectively to a wide range of 
substrates, including paper, cardboard, and flexible packaging materials. Enhanced binding 
agents improve ink absorption, reducing smudging and increasing durability. 
 
3. Reduced Drying Time with Advanced Formulations 
Although water-based inks typically require longer drying times compared to solvent-based 
alternatives, advancements in drying technologies and additives have significantly reduced this 
gap. High-efficiency drying systems, such as hot air or infrared drying, accelerate the process 
while maintaining ink integrity. 
 
Sustainability Benefits of Water-Based Gravure Inks 
1. Lower Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions 
One of the primary environmental benefits of water-based gravure inks is their significantly 
lower VOC emissions. Unlike solvent-based inks, which release harmful chemicals into the air, 
water-based formulations minimize air pollution and contribute to safer working conditions in 
printing facilities. 
 
2. Reduced Hazardous Waste & Safer Disposal 
Water-based inks eliminate the need for aggressive solvents, reducing hazardous waste 
production. The cleaning process for printing equipment also becomes easier and safer, as it 
requires only water or mild cleaning agents, lowering the overall environmental footprint. 
 
 
3. Compliance with Environmental Regulations 
Many regions have strict environmental regulations limiting VOC emissions and hazardous 
waste disposal. Using water-based gravure inks helps printing companies comply with these 
regulations while demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. This can also enhance brand 
reputation among environmentally conscious consumers. 
 
Challenges & Future Developments 
While water-based gravure inks offer numerous benefits, challenges such as drying efficiency, 
ink viscosity, and compatibility with non-porous substrates still exist. Ongoing research and 
development are focused on enhancing these inks to further optimize drying time, adhesion, 
and performance on diverse materials. Innovations in resin and additive technologies continue 
to improve ink stability and functionality. 
 
Water-based gravure inks provide a viable solution for reducing environmental impact while 
maintaining high print quality. With continuous advancements in ink formulations and drying 
technologies, these inks are becoming an increasingly practical choice for sustainable printing. 
As regulatory pressures and consumer demand for eco-friendly products grow, the transition to 
water-based inks represent a forward-thinking approach for the printing industry.