Kwang Myung Ink Co Ltd

Heatset printing ink, compliance verification with Blue Angel DE-UZ 195 for printed matters.

Background

The Blue Angel Certification for Printed Matters (RAL-UZ 195) is awarded to printed matter that represents an environmentally friendly alternative to standard printed matter available on the market.

The production of printed matter requires a high level of energy and resources when one considers all the factors involved (Paper, Ink, Printing). The many aspects of the printing process and the consumables needed can lead to the emission of organic solvents, that contribute to the production of ozone. Some components of the process can hinder the de-inking and recyclability of paper. Some substances used can be associated to health and environmental hazards, during their use or when discharged into the water system. The impact on human health and the environment can be reduced or prevented byusing safer and more suitable technologies.

Printing Ink

In relation to printing inks additional criteria must be met. No materials can be used in a formulation that are classified as toxic, CMR or known to be harmful. At Kwang Myung Ink Co Ltd, great care is taken to ensure that our inks do not use pigments containing heavy metals, or which might cleave dangerous, primary amines. The use of aromatic hydrocarbon solvents is restricted to 1% or below. In the case of aliphatic hydrocarbons there are restrictions for molecules with a chain length between C20 and C30. In addition, we have been successful in eliminating Polytetraflourene (PTFE) from our formulations.

Where possible ourraw materials areobtained from renewable resources, while ensuring that they are not derived from genetically modified organisms and do not contribute to the destruction of natural resources, such as rain forests. Additional measures have been taken to ensure de-inkability (with compliant substrates)according to INGEDE method 11.

KMI manufactures heatset inks following the highest Health, Safety and Environment standards and their composition and manufacturing process comply with Blue Angel Certification requirements. Should any customers be applying for Blue Angel Certification, we arewilling to support the application with guidance and evidence of our environmental Good Manufacturing Procedures and policies.