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Введение
Ink sublimation is a common challenge in printing, packaging, textile, and coating industries. When exposed to heat, certain pigments and organic compounds can migrate upward — a phenomenon known as ink sublimation. This causes discoloration, blurred edges, reduced stability, and compromised product quality.
To address this, powdered activated carbon (PAC) has become an effective solution widely used by ink manufacturers. As a specialized adsorbent, PAC traps volatile components and stabilizes ink formulas, ensuring excellent anti‑sublimation performance.
In this blog, we explore how powdered activated carbon works, its benefits, and why high‑quality wood‑based PAC from ZhuLin Activated Carbon is trusted across the industry.
What Is Ink Sublimation?
Ink sublimation occurs when certain molecules in the ink transition directly from solid or liquid form into vapor under heat. This gas‑phase migration can lead to unwanted color shifts and poor print durability.
Effects of Sublimation
• Color drifting or fading
• Reduced heat‑resistance of the ink layer
• Blurred or distorted patterns
• Unstable ink formula during drying, curing, or storage
• Ink manufacturers use PAC to prevent these issues and enhance product stability.
Why Use Powdered Activated Carbon for Anti‑Sublimation?
Powdered activated carbon contains micropores and mesopores that effectively capture volatile organic molecules responsible for sublimation.
• Adsorbing volatile organics that trigger sublimation
• Stabilizing pigment components under high temperature
• Enhancing heat resistance of ink formulations
• Improving storage stability and long‑term color retention
• Reducing odors and impurities in ink bases
• Supporting cleaner production and better environmental compliance
How Powdered Activated Carbon Works in Ink Formulations
PAC plays multiple roles in anti‑sublimation ink systems. Its porous structure and surface chemistry interact with sublimation‑prone compounds, preventing them from escaping.
Its main Working Mechanisms:
• Adsorption of low‑molecular organic impurities
• Stabilization of pigments by reducing reactive components
• Capturing VOCs generated during heating
• Improving thermal behavior of binder and dye systems
• Purifying ink solvents and intermediates before formulation
• Recommended Powdered Activated Carbon Parameters
Typical PAC Specifications for Ink Anti‑Sublimation
| Параметр | Типичное значение |
| Methylene Blue Value (MB) | 120–180 mg/g |
| Значение йода | 700–900 mg/g |
| Влажность | < 10% |
| Содержание золы | < 3% |
| рН | 6–8 |
| Размер частиц | 200–325 mesh |
| Насыпная плотность | 300–420 g/L |
Applications in the Ink and Coating Industry
• PAC is widely applied to improve stability and performance in:
• Anti‑sublimation inks
• Gravure and flexographic inks
• Heat‑set and UV‑curable inks
• Pigment dispersion systems
• Industrial coatings
• Electronic printing materials
• Textile printing pastes
Whether used during pigment refining, solvent purification, or formula stabilization, PAC enhances ink quality across multiple stages.
Why Choose ZhuLin Activated Carbon?
ZhuLin is a leading activated carbon manufacturer with 20+ years of experience, offering specialized PAC grades for the printing and pigment industries.
Zhulin PAC Advantages:
• Consistent quality and controlled pore distribution
• Stable MB value ideal for organic systems
• Clean, neutral carbon with low ash and odor
• Excellent dispersibility in solvent‑based or water‑based inks
• Custom production available for unique ink formulations
Заключение
Powdered activated carbon is an essential additive for preventing ink sublimation. By capturing volatile components and stabilizing pigments, PAC enhances heat resistance, color stability, and overall ink performance.
With the right grade of PAC — especially high‑purity, well‑structured wood‑based carbon — ink manufacturers can significantly improve product reliability and durability. For customized grades or technical support, ZhuLin Activated Carbon is ready to assist.