Protective Coats

“UV coatings have the distinct advantage of providing a high-gloss finish when compared to water-based coatings,” says John Signet, marketing manager for Water Ink Technologies. “It’s the high gloss that is important to many of the consumer products companies.”

Deanna Whelan, marketing manager for XSYS Print Solutions, notes that in addition to the desirable high-gloss finish, additional effects can be achieved with UV coatings, such as matte finishes and tactile properties that provide a look and feel not achievable with other coating technologies. Other enhanced properties she mentions include: optical brighteners for backlight capabilities; glitter and pearlescent enhancements; and different levels of COF (coefficient of friction) to optimize application and storage of packaged products.