The Root of the Problem

However, it doesn't take much for a coating to become the root of a problem. In fact, it's as easy as changing substrates or application methods. "In an effort to control costs and provide increased value for their customers, packaging manufacturers often look at changing the packaging substrates," explained Don Matthiesen, director of marketing and communication at Environmental Inks & Coatings. "Increased absorbency, material flexibility, reduced surface tension, and various slip packages may alter the immediate outcome and worse yet, cause failure days or weeks later." And, Matthiesen continued, "Changing the application method can cause a great product to yield poor results. In particular, the application rate will effect the flexibility, adhesion, COF (coefficient of friction), and rub resistance of a coating."