Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
On the Horizon—Waterless Printing
Waterless printing offers significant advantages even when compared with other environ-
mentally conscious offset printing methods. Unlike conventional offset lithography—a
chemical process that requires water and dampening solutions—waterless printing uses
a specific temperature range to transfer ink to the substrate. The elimination of water—
and fountain solutions that contain isopropyl alcohol or their substitutes—vastly reduces
the amount of water used and VOCs emitted on press. Waterless printing is also more
efficient; printers that have switched to waterless printing report increased productivity
of more than 100 percent. Unfortunately, so few printers offer this service that there is a
great deal of misunderstanding about the technology. The truth is that waterless is cost
effective and can be used to produce everything that would be printed with traditional off-
set lithography.
Digital Printing
Digital printing is usually considered environmentally preferable for jobs requiring fewer
than 2,000 copies. It is also a good option for larger pieces such as signage or banners.
Digital printing includes toner-based printers such as laser printers, which use heat to
adhere dry pigment to paper, as well as ink-jet systems, which spray water and solvent-
based ink directly onto paper or other printing material. Digital printing is environmentally
preferable because toner inks don't use any alcohol or emit VOCs, and even ink-jet print-
ing has virtually eliminated off-gassing.
One of the main benefits of digital printing is that it doesn't require messy cleanup. Some
companies have programs that allow used ink cartridges and other printing waste (such
as printer components and used ink depositories) to be returned to the manufacturer for
recycling. In the case of ink-jet printing, there are new environmentally friendly papers,
manmade and natural, that can be run in both small and wide-format printers.
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