Quick Guide To Pantone Fluorescent Inks
Fluorescent inks are based on pigments that have the ability to absorb Ultraviolet energy and virtually immediately re-emit this energy within the visible spectrum. The effect of this is to cause the print to glow and appear very bright in daylight conditions.
When printing with Pantone Fluorescent inks, the following points should be considered:
- Fluorescent inks should be printed on white or light backgrounds, which act as a reflector base, and enhance the fluorescence.
- The level of fluorescence is proportional to the thickness of the pigment layer.
- Fluorescent pigments are semi transparent and have lower colour strength compared to conventional pigments
- Due to the facts above, best results are achieved by applying a double layer of ink.
- Fluorescent inks have a tendency to take up more fount than conventional inks. This can lead to poor transfer and possible over emulsification. For this reason, fount solution levels should be kept to a minimum.
It should also be noted that the lightfastness of these types of pigment is generally poor. Print standards should be stored away from the light to minimise any colour change.
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- Clive Harper
