Experimental Investigation of Adhesion Mechanisms and Curing Behaviour of Coated Polymer Substrates in Hybrid Printing Systems

Shubham; Arohit Goyat; Satish

doi:10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i3254-259

Authors

Shubham Research Scholar, Department of Printing Technology, GJUS&T, Hisar, Haryana
Arohit Goyat Associate Professor, Department of Printing Technology, GJUS&T, Hisar, Haryana
Satish Assistant Professor, Department of Printing Technology, GJUS&T, Hisar, Haryana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i3254-259

Keywords:

Electron Beam (EB), BOPET, Ultra Voilet (UV), Surface energy, Adhesion, Hybrid Printing, Coated Plastic Substrate, Scotch Tape Test

Abstract

The adhesion and curing behaviour of coated plastic substrates in hybrid printing processes are crucial for ensuring high-quality, durable prints specially for flexible packaging applications. This paper aims to optimize substrate performance by investigating ink adhesion and curing efficiency under controlled printing conditions in hybrid printing presses with the combination of Flexo and Gravure Printing processes. The research systematically evaluates the influence of coating formulations, curing parameters and substrate surface characteristics on overall print quality.

To achieve this, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET) films (both coated and uncoated) are subjected to experimental trials assessing ink-substrate interactions. Key measurement methods included surface energy evaluations using ARCOTEST dyne solutions and adhesion strength assessments through Scotch Tape tests. Additionally, UV and electron beam (EB) curing techniques are employed to study polymerization dynamics, ink anchoring behaviour and overall stability of cured prints. By analysing these parameters, the study provides insights into optimizing hybrid printing technologies, advancing substrate engineering and enhancing durability for packaging applications.

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