Future Demands on Coated Paper, 1996 New Printing Technologies Symposium Proceedings

David A. Smith

Dow Chemical

The printing industry is currently experiencing a transition more far reaching than was the change from letterpress to offset. Digital technology is reshaping the printing industry, however printing is emerging as a beneficiary of the electronic revolution rather than a victim. Key issues for printers will be faster turnaround, the number of colors, the environment and safety. Firms involved in the manufacture of coated paper must have a thorough understanding of the emerging print technologies if they are to successfully direct R & D and manufacturing efforts. Despite the rapid changes occurring in press technology, the nature of the inks is evolving within familiar broad categories. In order to develop opportunities efficiently, a strategy is proposed in which new printing processes are systematically examined in terms of the end use of the finished product, the ink properties, and the methods of application and ink solidification. A calm systematic approach, in which the key issues are separated from the “list of gadgets” will be the key to our survival in the coated paper industry of the future.