Glitter, pearlescent, fluorescent, thermochromic—even the names of specialty inks raise the specter of something exciting.

By Tom Polischuk

UV/IR responsive inks combine effects from both UV and IR sources, says Lorenz. The ink will fluoresce a bright green when exposed to IR light at 980 nm, or can be formulated to fluoresce as a chosen color when exposed to UV light.

Lorenz mentions an array of potential uses, such as glow-in-the-dark applications for novelty items, running shoes, or wallpaper (maybe to help guide people down a darkened hallway). As with many specialty inks, there are process considerations when applying fluorescent inks, such as potentially having to reduce the run speed of the press. In addition, he says, the best method for application may be screen due to the need for thick ink laydown.