By SelChem India

Increasing Energy

Increasing Energy
Wavelength

Energy derived from Radiation = Radiant Energy

Radiant Energy can be used for various applications : e.g. Cathode Ray tubes used in televisions, or Microwaves used for cooking, X-Rays used for diagnostic applications etc. Similarly, radiant energy from forced air convection ovens or Infra Red sources or Ultravoilet lamps are used as sources of energy for various industrial applications. The Electromagnetic Spectrum is a source of Radiant Energy

Transfer of Radiant Energy can be understood by two different perspectives : 1. Wave phenomena. 2. Sub-atomic particle movement.

The key characteristics of all waves are : 1. Wavelength 2. Frequency 3. Intensity Avg. amount of energy transferred by a wave per unit time and per unit area.

For curing of UV coatings, inks & adhesives, UV light having wavelength between 180nm to 400nm is usually used.

Radiant energy from the Electro Magnetic spectrum can also be characterised as particulate bundles of energy called as Photons.

Photons from UV light react with photo-initiators in UV coatings/inks/adhesives to initiate the curing process.

UV coatings are designed to match spectral output of the lamp used for curing the coating/ink/adhesive.

UV LED is a new source of UV light with many advantages. However, there are some limitations with UV LED which have to be overcome.

Reduced floor space UV curing equipment is more compact than conventional curing equipment. Suitable for heat sensitive substrates like plastics, wood, paper etc. Reduced in-process inventory single step in-line process. No intermediate steps or ageing/maturation of coatings. Lower insurance & reduced handling hazards can be offered as solvent-less coatings complying with VOC & HAP regulations. Reduced costs Substantial energy savings can be achieved by switching from thermal cured to UV cured coating systems. Proven Technology in commercial use since 1960s.

Typical UV Coatings consist of : 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Mixture of reactive Oligomers One or more reactive Monomers UV Light absorbing components (Photo-initiators) Additives Pigments

The chemistry used is usually acrylate or uerthane-acrylate.

1. Coating of wood 2. Coating of plastics 3. CD/DVD coatings & adhesives 4. Coating of Electronic PCBs 5. Coating of 3-D substrates 6. Adhesives for lamination or assembly 7. Release coatings 8. Metal decoration inks 9. Coating of optical fibres 10. Printing & packaging (inks, overprint varnish)

Thank You !