Ricoh introduces first plant-based ink for graphics and package printing; ink is based on plant oils and is biodegradable with improved food compatibility

LONDON , February 15, 2022 (press release) –

Brand owners and printer manufacturers can further reduce their environmental impact with Ricoh’s plant-based ink – the first of its kind for mainstream graphics and packaging print.

The ink is a derivative of the oil-based ink created for the décor printing sector as part of Ricoh’s collaboration with German equipment manufacturer Olbrich. It has been developed to deliver excellent rub resistance and set-off performance for corrugated brown and white boards, as well as carton board.

The plant oil component creates a sustainable and environmentally-friendly ink that it is:

• Quick drying, as no heat is required to fix or dry the ink. The oil penetrates porous substrates leaving the pigment near the surface. This reduces energy consumption and eliminates the need for the whole drying system.
• Odour-free with improved food compatibility, as no monomers are used. 
• Biodegradable and supports deinking.
• Not water-based so no biocides are required to keep the ink usable. 

The print heads are easier to clean and less likely to clog as ‘open time’ is much longer. This helps enhance jetting reliability, performance, and printhead life. Low ink consumption is also enabled as the same optical density is achievable using 50% less ink. 

Graham Kennedy, Director Industrial Printing, Graphic Communications, Ricoh Europe, says: “Brand owners and printer manufacturers are increasingly focused on reducing their environmental impact and applying sustainable practices wherever possible. With our new plant-based ink they can seamlessly introduce positive changes that make a big difference without impacting their high quality printed results.”

The ink is now available across EMEA.

For more information visit www.ricoh-europe.com. 
| About Ricoh |
Ricoh is empowering digital workplaces using innovative technologies and services that enable individuals to work smarter from anywhere.

With cultivated knowledge and organizational capabilities nurtured over its 85-years history, Ricoh is a leading provider of digital services and information management, and print and imaging solutions designed to support digital transformation and optimize business performance.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group has major operations throughout the world and its products and services now reach customers in approximately 200 countries and regions. In the financial year ended March 2021, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 1,682 billion yen (approx. 15.1 billion USD).

For further information, please visit www.ricoh-europe.com

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