Packaging and printing have become daily products in recent times. From small to luxury brands, everyone gets luxury packaging for their products. To make luxury packaging, several types of coatings and finishes are used. Among them, the most used one is aqueous coating.
But what is aqueous coating itself?
Aqueous coating is a water-based, fast-drying, and environmentally friendly coating with durable and versatile qualities. It makes your product packaging look better and last longer.
It makes a strong first impression and stands out on store shelves with a shiny and glammy appearance. It engages the audience and attracts the bystanders, increasing product worth.
Want to explore more about the aqueous coating? Let us dive into the comprehensive blog.
What is Aqueous Coating (AQ)?
Aqueous coating is made from water, ammonium hydroxide, wetting agents, polymers, and wax, or a slip agent. It is a water-based and environmentally friendly coating that quickly dries when applied. It is often used in printing and packaging to boost the appeal.
Many packaging experts call this "default coating” because it's versatile and durable. It can withstand exposure and come in different finishes. It is great for food packaging, household products packaging, and fast-moving consumer goods boxes.
Moreover, the best quality of this coating is that it is resistant to fingerprints and impurities, maintaining the custom box appeal and luxury image. However, aqueous coating is not waterproof, but water-resistant, giving high resistance to water.
Types of Aqueous Coating
Aqueous coating comes in many types. And many of the experts think AQ coating is itself a type of coating. However, this may be true, but aqueous coating also has types. Some are more glittery while other types are vibrant or protective.
Let us analyze every type separately. Satin aqueous coating is one of the most used with properties such as protecting against fingerprintings.
1. Matte Finish
The other type is a matte finish. It offers a vibrant look with minimal shine, suitable for luxury or minimalist design products.
2. Satin Aqueous Coating
Satin Aqueous coating is the best kind of aqueous coating. It provides a glossy look while protecting against fingerprints. Its use is for sleek and luxury packaging.
3. Dry Erase Finish
The most affordable AQ coating is a dry-erase finish. It is an affordable option with enhanced shine and glitter.
4. Pencil Receptive Finish
This type of aqueous coating is like art. This coating allows writing with pencils and remains durable over time. It is how you can write on an aqueous coating.
5. Soft Touch Finish
When it comes to soft touch finishings of aqueous coating, the soft touch finish gives a velvety texture with a subtle, elegant appearance.
6. Primer Coating
The last type of aqueous coat is primer coating. It is applied before lamination to enhance receptivity to inks and markers for best use.
7. Gloss Finish
A gloss finish is the first type of aqueous coating. It creates a shiny, reflective surface when applied. It is best for jewelry and other shiny products.
These were the all aqueous coating options we discovered. Not let us move forward into deep analysis.
Why Aqueous Coating Matters?
Aqueous coating is a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly coating option. It is non-toxic and safe for the food and environment. This coating is considered versatile for various printing processes.
Compared to other coatings, aqueous contains is a cost-effective option. Moreover, it is durable and long-lasting, with the added benefit of being less prone to yellowing. It is a great option for bulk manufacturers who are tight on budget.
Furthermore, aqueous coating is a sustainable option. The coating is easy to recycle, produces little waste, and doesn’t need harmful detergents for cleaning. Arduous finishing is also easy to use. It is easy to apply, compatible with different printing inks, and you can even write over it.
Apart from these benefits, AQ coating is a protective and durable coating option, keeping things for longer periods. Reliability is assured as it protects the ink from exposure. It maintains a metallic appearance and prevents yellowing over time.
Aqueous Coating Process
The aqueous coating application process is simple. The aqueous finishing is applied by a special machine such as Autoprint Fine Coat 80 AX just before printing ink. It dries quickly, thanks to a heated air system.
This process is popular for its reliable and brilliant results. However, it does have some limitations. Chemicals are burnt in an aqueous coating process. It also has lower solvent resistance compared to UV coating and thermal lamination.
Uses Of Aqueous Coating in Packaging
Packaging is one the frequent use of aqueous coating. It is used more than 70% than other coating options in custom boxes creation. When applied to packaging boxes, it protects products from blemishes, scuffs, and indentations.
It also works well with glossy paper and offset printing. The coating is applied at the same time as printing on an offset press for a high-gloss finish.
Read More: A Deep Insight On Corn Starch Packaging
What is UV Coating?
Along with aqueous lamination, one of the most frequent questions consumers ask is about UV coating and the difference between aqueous coating and UV coating. Actually, UV coating is a type of finish applied to surfaces. It uses chemicals like polyethylene or calcium carbonate.
Once applied, it's instantly dried using ultraviolet (UV) light like aqueous coating, hence called UV coating. Some benefits of UV coating are durability, smooth surface, water resistance, and spot UV coating.
UV coating can cover the whole sheet or just certain areas. When applied to specific areas, it is commonly known as spot UV coating.
Types of UV Coating
Basic types of UV coating or matte finish that is non shiny and flat in appearance. And another is a high gloss finish that is shiny and has a reflective surface.
Aqueous Coating vs UV Coating
There is an ongoing debate between aqueous coating vs UV coating. After going through papers and research, we have come to the main differences between aqueous coating and UV coating. So let us highlight the differences between aqueous and UV coating.
| Properties | Aqueous Coating | UV Coating |
| Flexibility |
More flexible, suitable for foldable items. |
Less flexible, may crack if folded. |
|
Environmental Impact |
Eco-friendly and non-toxic. |
Less environmentally friendly due to chemical content. |
| Durability |
Good for daily use, and protects against scuffs and scratches. |
Extremely durable, offers long-lasting protection with a high gloss finish. |
| Cost |
More affordable because it's water-based. |
Generally pricier due to the chemical process and UV drying. |
|
Drying Process |
Dries through evaporation or absorption, forming a thin protective layer. |
Dries instantly with UV light, creating a solid, protective film. |
Final Thoughts!
Aqueous coating is a water-based coating that dries quickly when applied. It is strong, durable, and protective. Its uses in packaging and printing are enormous. Like this, UV coating also dries quickly with the help of UV rays. With this guide, you must get your answer to the question “What is aqueous coating?”.
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