Print coatings are key to enhancing both the look and durability of your packaging materials, ensuring that your products remain visually appealing despite multiple handling.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into one of the most popular and widely used print coatings in the packaging industry: Aqueous (AQ) Coating.
We’ll explore the different types of print coatings, when and why to use them, and why AQ coating is a top choice for many packaging manufacturers.
When to Use Print Coatings
Why Coatings Matter
Regardless of the specific type, print coatings generally serve two main purposes: protection and enhancement.
Coatings help preserve the visual appeal of printed materials by providing a layer of protection against scuffs, scratches, and dirt.
This is especially important if your packaging will be mailed, displayed in stores, or handled frequently.
Print coatings are essential for products such as brochures, business cards, and packaging that may come into contact with multiple people.
If your printed materials are going to be handled by many hands, coatings will not only enhance their durability but also maintain their pristine appearance.
The coating acts as a barrier, helping to prevent the transfer of fingerprints and grime.
However, it’s important to note that not all printed materials require coatings.
For example, greeting cards often don’t need a coating because it may make it difficult to write on them.
In such cases, selective coating can be used, where only specific areas are coated, ensuring that the writing area remains unaffected.
What is Aqueous (AQ) Coating?
Aqueous coating is a water-based finish that is applied to printed materials to enhance their appearance and durability.
AQ coating is often referred to as the “default” coating in the packaging industry because of its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness.
The coating is typically applied during the printing process and dries quickly, making it ideal for high-volume production.
AQ coating is known for being non-toxic, which makes it a safe choice for a variety of applications, including food and household products.
Its fast-drying nature allows manufacturers to speed up the production process, and its ability to resist fingerprints and other smudges makes it especially suitable for products that will be handled frequently.
Despite its advantages, it’s important to note that AQ coating is not waterproof.
This means it may not be the best choice for products exposed to moisture or liquids, such as cosmetics or perfumes, where the packaging could be affected by leaks.
Comparing Aqueous Coating with Other Coatings
| Feature | AQ Coating | UV Coating | Varnish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coating Area | Flood coating only | Flood or spot coating | Flood or spot coating |
| Drying Speed | Fast drying | Instant drying | Long drying time |
| Solution Base | Non-toxic, water-based | Chemical-based solvent | Water or chemical-based solvent |
| Yellowing | Less likely to yellow | Does not yellow | May yellow over time |
| Finishing Options | Matte, Satin, Gloss | Matte, Gloss | Matte, Satin, Gloss |
Aqueous Coating
The most cost-effective and eco-friendly option. It is typically applied as a flood coating, meaning it covers the entire surface of the printed material.
AQ is perfect for general packaging needs, offering a matte, satin, or gloss finish, while also providing solid protection against fingerprints, scuffs, and scratches.
UV Coating
Unlike AQ, UV coating can be applied as a flood or spot coating, allowing for more creative flexibility in highlighting specific areas.
It uses ultraviolet light to dry instantly, creating a shiny finish that is popular for designs requiring a glossy look.
However, it’s less environmentally friendly due to the chemical-based solvents used in its application, and it’s more resistant to wear and tear, but may feel overly shiny for some applications.
Varnish
Varnish also offers flood or spot coating, but it requires a longer drying time compared to both AQ and UV coatings.
While it offers good protection, it can yellow over time, particularly when exposed to light or environmental factors.
Varnish can provide a more subtle finish, but the yellowing factor can detract from its long-term aesthetic appeal.
The Benefits of Aqueous Coating
Aqueous coating offers several benefits that make it a go-to choice for packaging manufacturers. Let’s break down these advantages:
- Non-toxic & Environmentally Friendly: AQ coating uses water-based solvents, which are safer for the environment compared to chemical-based coatings like UV and varnish. It is non-toxic and does not release harmful fumes or pollutants during the application process, making it an ideal choice for companies aiming to reduce their environmental impact.
- Versatility: Aqueous coating is compatible with various types of printing processes, including offset printing. It is highly adaptable to different materials and can be used for a wide range of applications. Additionally, AQ coating allows for writing or printing on top of the coated surface, giving packaging designers greater flexibility in their creative choices.
- Cost-Effective: As a water-based solution, AQ coating is typically less expensive than alternatives like UV coating. Its quick-drying properties also increase production efficiency, reducing the overall cost of manufacturing.
- Durability and Longevity: AQ coating provides excellent protection against wear and tear. It helps maintain the color fidelity of metallic and other specialty inks, which is crucial for premium packaging. Additionally, AQ-coated materials are less likely to yellow over time compared to varnish, keeping your packaging looking fresh for a longer period.
Types of Aqueous Coatings
Aqueous coatings come in a variety of finishes, each of which can be chosen based on your desired aesthetic and functional needs. The main types include:
- Gloss: Provides a subtle shine without being overly flashy. Ideal for packaging that needs to look polished but not too glossy.
- Dry Erase: This high-gloss finish offers a cost-effective alternative to lamination, providing a durable surface that can be written on and wiped off without damage.
- Satin: A balanced finish that offers medium shine and excellent resistance to scuffs and scratches, making it suitable for packaging that needs a refined but durable look.
- Matte: Low shine with high color intensity. This finish works well for a more subdued look, making colors appear richer and more saturated.
- Soft Touch: Creates a velvety texture with a soft, non-glossy appearance. It gives the packaging a premium feel and is often used for high-end products.
The Aqueous Coating Process
The AQ coating process is relatively simple yet requires specialized machinery to ensure a smooth, high-quality finish.
The coating is applied to the printed material immediately before or after the ink is printed.
The coated material then passes through a heated air system to ensure quick drying, making it possible to move on to further production steps without delay.
The video below does a great job showing how this process is done.
Challenges and Considerations
While AQ coating offers numerous benefits, there are some challenges to consider.
One key limitation is its lower resistance to chemical exposure compared to UV coating.
For example, if the packaging will come into contact with harsh chemicals or liquids, AQ may not be the best option.
Another challenge is that while AQ coating offers protection from scratches and scuffs, it is still not as resistant to extreme conditions as UV coatings or thermal laminations.
END
Aqueous coating is a versatile, cost-effective, and eco-friendly choice for product packaging, providing a durable and attractive finish that is resistant to wear and tear.
Whether you’re in the food, beverage, cosmetics, or retail industry, AQ coating can enhance the visual appeal and longevity of your packaging.
However, it’s important to evaluate your specific product needs and the environmental conditions it will be exposed to before selecting the right coating option.
To learn more about AQ coating and how it can benefit your packaging, please feel free to contact our product specialists for expert advice on your specific requirements.
