HONGSAM Has Obtained A Provincial-level Key Research and Development Project, Focusing on Flexible Packaging

Abstract: HONGSAM has officially signed a key R&D project under the Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology. The project focuses on digital printing for soft packaging films, with the core goal of overcoming technical challenges in using nano water-based latex ink (Latex Ink) on non-absorbent substrates—particularly imaging quality and heat resistance. This technology is widely applicable to food packaging, daily chemical labels, and various soft plastic films, marking a significant step toward an “ultra-low VOCs” era in green packaging printing. The approval further validates the company’s innovation capabilities.

What Makes This Soft Packaging Film Digital Printing Project Stand Out?

Traditional soft packaging printing faces persistent issues with plastic films (non-absorbent substrates) such as poor water absorption, difficult ink fixation, and insufficient heat resistance. To address these pain points, HONGSAM Digital has partnered with Zhengzhou University to develop JETALL® nano water-based latex ink specifically for soft packaging plastic films. The research targets the following key technical bottlenecks:

· High-definition imaging technology: Solving the problem of water-based ink failing to adhere or spread properly on PET, PE, OPP and other plastic films, while achieving high-precision imaging and strong adhesion.

· Nano-level fixation process: Enhancing the bonding strength between the ink layer and the plastic substrate to prevent peeling during subsequent processing. The printed layers demonstrate excellent resistance to rubbing, scratching, grease, and boiling water, easily passing stringent physical performance tests.

· High-temperature resistance: Optimizing the latex ink formulation to ensure that printed products maintain color and adhesion through downstream processes such as heat sealing and sterilization.

· Low-VOCs green formulation: Completely shifting away from traditional solvent-based systems by adopting a water-based formula, which significantly reduces VOCs (volatile organic compounds) emissions at the source and ensures both environmental compliance and print quality.

The Broader Significance of Green Printing

· More environmentally friendly: By using water as the primary solvent instead of organic solvents, the nano water-based ink dramatically cuts emissions of harmful substances such as benzene and ketones during printing on non-absorbent plastic films. This improves workshop air quality, reduces respiratory and skin irritation risks for operators, and meets occupational health and safety standards. The ink contains no heavy metals and produces no irritating odors; waste ink is also easier to treat and does not contaminate soil or water sources.

· More cost-effective: Compared with solvent-based systems, waste ink lines and residues are simpler to handle, eliminating the need for complex exhaust gas recovery equipment. This leads to lower energy consumption and maintenance costs, supporting corporate low-carbon goals.

· Better suitability for end-use: In food packaging and label applications on plastic films, the water-based ink leaves no solvent residues, helping meet strict hygiene and environmental regulations while reducing migration risks and ensuring consumer safety. It is also compatible with recycled plastic substrates, promoting the shift toward greener, lower-hazard, and more sustainable printing on non-absorbent media—delivering both environmental and industrial upgrading benefits.

Strong Collaboration Ensures Solid R&D Progress

The project leverages HONGSAM’s own Henan Inkjet Materials Engineering Technology Research Center and benefits from collaborative innovation with Zhengzhou University, providing robust scientific and technical support.

Recognition Drives Continued Advancement

This project was selected and entrusted to HONGSAM Digital after review by the Henan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, serving as strong official recognition of the company’s technical strength in digital inkjet printing. Moving forward, HONGSAM Digital will continue to focus on green digital printing, using technological innovation to drive industry upgrading and bring more environmentally friendly and efficient printing solutions to a wider range of applications.