Eco Solvent vs Latex Printing: Why You Should Consider Printing for the Planet

In today’s environmentally conscious world, every decision counts – including the type of printing we choose. That’s where eco solvent printing and latex printing come into the picture. Not only do they offer vibrant and high-quality prints, but they also have distinct environmental footprints. But what exactly are these printing methods? And when should one be used over the other? This article delves deep into the fascinating realm of eco solvent printing vs latex printing, highlighting their pros and cons, and how they can align with your eco-friendly lifestyle.

What is eco solvent printing and what is latex printing?

Let’s begin by talking about what exactly these two types of printing are. Eco solvent printing and latex printing are two of the most popular methods in the wide-format printing industry, particularly used for outdoor signage and banners.

Eco solvent printing is a type of inkjet printing that uses eco-solvent inks. These are a type of solvent ink that is more environmentally friendly than traditional solvent inks. The “eco” in eco solvent stands for ecological, because these inks are less harmful to the environment and people’s health. They are made up of ether extracts taken from refined mineral oil, making them safer and less aggressive. These inks are widely used due to their vibrant colours and ability to adhere well to a variety of surfaces, including flexible materials like PVC.

On the other hand, latex printing is a type of printing that uses latex inks, which are water-based. The key ingredient here is the polymer in the ink that gives it its unique properties. Latex inks are known for being more eco-friendly, as they do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the printing process. In addition, they are odourless, and they cure at a lower temperature, which makes them more energy efficient. Another advantage of latex printing is the durability of the prints, which can resist fading and discoloration, even when exposed to outdoor conditions.

Both of these printing methods offer different benefits and trade-offs, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and environmental considerations.

Key differences between eco solvent printing and latex printing

1. Ink composition: Eco solvent inks are made from ether extracts of refined mineral oil, while latex inks are water-based and contain polymers.
2. Environmental impact: Although both are more environmentally friendly than traditional solvent inks, latex inks have the edge as they do not emit volatile organic compounds during the printing process.
3. Curing process: Eco solvent prints require more time to outgas after printing, while latex prints cure quickly and can be finished or used almost immediately.
4. Durability: Both prints are durable, but latex prints tend to resist fading and discoloration better, making them a good choice for outdoor use.
5. Energy efficiency: Latex printers typically require less energy than eco solvent printers, as they cure at lower temperatures.
6. Odor: While eco solvent inks have a mild odor, latex inks are virtually odorless.

Key similarities between eco solvent printing and latex printing

1. Eco-friendliness: Both eco solvent and latex printing are more eco-friendly options compared to traditional solvent-based printing.
2. Print quality: Both printing methods offer high-resolution, vibrant, and high-quality prints.
3. Wide-format applications: Both are used extensively in wide-format printing for applications such as banners, signs, vehicle graphics, and more.
4. Versatility: Both eco solvent and latex inks can adhere well to a variety of surfaces, offering a wide range of printing possibilities.
5. Safe for indoor use: Both types of prints are safe for indoor use, making them a good choice for indoor signage or décor.
6. Longevity: Both types of prints can last a long time, especially when properly cared for and protected from extreme weather conditions.

Pros of eco solvent printing over latex printing

1. Ink Adhesion: Eco solvent inks are known for their excellent ability to adhere to a wide variety of surfaces, which can give you more flexibility in your printing projects.
2. Vibrant Colors: Eco solvent inks are praised for their ability to reproduce vibrant and saturated colors, giving a striking look to your prints.
3. Lower equipment cost: Generally, eco solvent printers can be less expensive to purchase than latex printers, making them a cost-effective choice for smaller businesses or startups.
4. Longer print life: Eco solvent prints tend to have a long lifespan, resisting fading and wear effectively, which can be crucial for outdoor applications.
5. Lower ink consumption: Eco solvent printers are often more efficient with ink usage compared to latex printers, leading to potential cost savings in the long run.

Cons of eco solvent printing compared to latex printing

1. Slower drying time: Eco solvent inks require a longer drying time compared to latex inks, which can slow down the production process.
2. Ink Odor: While the odor from eco solvent inks is not harmful, it is more noticeable than the virtually odorless latex inks.
3. Environmental Impact: While eco solvent inks are more eco-friendly than traditional solvent inks, they’re not quite as environmentally friendly as latex inks, which do not emit VOCs during the printing process.
4. Energy usage: Eco solvent printers often require more energy to operate than latex printers, as the inks need to be heated to a higher temperature for curing.
5. Handling and Storage: Eco solvent inks can require special handling and storage due to their chemical composition, while latex inks are generally easier to handle and store.
6. Ventilation requirements: While both types of printers should be used in a well-ventilated area, eco solvent printers might require more ventilation due to the mild odor of the inks.
7. Post-printing time: Eco solvent prints need to off-gas after printing before they can be laminated or mounted, while latex prints can be finished almost immediately.

Pros of latex printing over eco solvent printing

1. Quick Drying: Latex inks dry quickly and can be handled or finished almost immediately after printing, increasing productivity.
2. Lower Environmental Impact: Latex printing doesn’t emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the printing process, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
3. Energy Efficiency: Latex printers cure at lower temperatures, using less energy compared to eco solvent printers.
4. Odorless Prints: Unlike eco solvent inks, latex inks are virtually odorless, which can be a big plus for indoor applications.
5. Durability: Prints created with latex inks are highly durable and fade-resistant, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
6. Wide Media Compatibility: Latex printers can print on a wide range of coated and uncoated substrates, offering versatility in your printing projects.

Cons of latex printing compared to eco solvent printing

1. Initial Investment: Latex printers can be more expensive initially than eco solvent printers, which may be a concern for small businesses or startups.
2. Ink Cost: Latex inks can be more expensive than eco solvent inks, adding to the ongoing operational costs.
3. Specialized substrates: Some substrates may require special coatings to accept latex inks, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of printing.
4. Maintenance: Latex printers may require more maintenance than eco solvent printers, which could lead to additional costs and downtime.
5. Space requirements: Latex printers can be larger than eco solvent printers, requiring more space in your workshop or office.
6. Heat sensitivity: Because latex inks cure with heat, they might not be suitable for heat-sensitive materials.
7. Color vibrancy: While latex inks provide good color reproduction, they may not be as vibrant as eco solvent inks in some applications.

Situations when eco solvent printing is better than latex printing

1. Budget considerations: If you’re working with a tighter budget, eco solvent printers often come at a lower initial cost than latex printers.
2. Vibrant color needs: When your project demands very vibrant and saturated colors, eco solvent printing can provide a superior color pop.
3. Heat-sensitive materials: If you’re printing on materials that are sensitive to heat, eco solvent printing can be a safer bet, as it does not require the high temperatures used in latex printing.
4. Long-term outdoor usage: Eco solvent prints tend to have excellent UV and weather resistance, making them ideal for long-term outdoor applications.
5. Low-odor requirements: Although latex inks are odorless, eco solvent inks only have a mild odor, making them suitable for indoor use when ventilation is a concern.

Situations when latex printing is better than eco solvent printing

1. Rapid turnaround times: If you need prints that can be handled and finished almost immediately after printing, latex printing can provide a quicker turnaround than eco solvent printing.
2. Higher environmental standards: When you’re trying to minimize your environmental impact, latex printing is the more eco-friendly option as it doesn’t emit VOCs during the printing process.
3. Energy efficiency: If reducing energy consumption is a priority, latex printing is a more energy-efficient option due to lower curing temperatures.
4. Odor-sensitive environments: For indoor applications where any odor might be a concern, latex printing is ideal, as the inks are virtually odorless.
5. Broad material compatibility: If you’re printing on a wide range of coated and uncoated substrates, latex printing can offer greater versatility.
6. High durability needs: When your prints need to resist fading and discoloration, especially in outdoor conditions, latex printing can provide superior durability.

Eco Solvent vs Latex Printing Summary

Choosing between eco solvent printing and latex printing goes beyond just the quality of prints. It’s about understanding the environmental implications and making a conscious decision that aligns with your sustainability goals. While each method has its unique advantages and potential drawbacks, the key lies in assessing your specific needs and environmental considerations. Ultimately, every eco-friendly choice we make, no matter how small, contributes to a healthier planet. So, whether you opt for eco solvent or latex printing, remember – you’re printing not just for yourself, but for the planet too.