StarColor specialty Inks
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Image of thermochromic ink application

Thermochromic Inks

Thermochromic ink is a specialty ink that can change color reversibly or irreversibly in response to temperature changes. When the temperature reaches or exceeds a specific threshold, the ink's color changes, providing an intuitive temperature indication.

Key Features

  • Reversible & Irreversible Change: We offer both inks that revert to their original color and those that change permanently.
  • Multiple Activation Temperatures: Activation thresholds can be customized for low to high temperatures.
  • Wide Color Selection: A broad range of base colors and corresponding color-change options.

Sterilization Indicator Inks

Sterilization indicator ink is a chemical-indicating ink that is sensitive to specific sterilization conditions (e.g., high temperature, steam, ethylene oxide). After the sterilization process, the ink undergoes a permanent color change, visually confirming that the item has been sterilized.

Key Features

  • Clear Color Change: Provides a high-contrast visual change that is easy to identify.
  • High Accuracy & Reliability: Precisely responds to specific sterilization conditions to avoid false positives.
  • Meets Industry Standards: Our formulations comply with ISO and relevant medical device standards.
Image of sterilization indicator ink application

Wide Range of Applications

UV Label

Temperature Control Labels

Used for food, medicine, and cold chain logistics to visually indicate temperature changes.

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Cosmetics Packaging

Creates fun interactive effects or indicates if the product is at its optimal use temperature.

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Medical Device Packaging

Used for sterile packaging to indicate successful sterilization, ensuring patient safety.

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Food Packaging

Ensures canned goods and ready-to-eat meals have undergone proper sterilization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do thermochromic inks change color?

The core of thermochromic ink is microencapsulated leuco dyes. When the temperature rises to a set threshold, the substance inside the capsules undergoes a reversible structural change, causing it to change from colored to colorless (or vice versa). When the temperature drops, the color returns. This unique chemical reaction allows it to respond precisely to temperature changes.

Can sterilization indicator ink be used for all sterilization methods?

No. Sterilization indicator inks are designed for specific methods, such as steam sterilization, ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization, or radiation sterilization. Each ink formula is precisely formulated to respond to specific conditions of temperature, humidity, and gas concentration. When choosing, you must ensure the ink type perfectly matches your sterilization method for accurate and reliable indication.

How can I customize the color and temperature threshold of specialty inks?

We offer a fully customized service. You just need to provide your specific requirements, including the desired color-change temperature (e.g., 31°C), the colors before and after the change, and the type of printing substrate. Our technical team will then formulate an exclusive ink recipe for you to ensure it perfectly meets your application needs.

Customize Your Exclusive Functional Inks

Our technical team will customize the right color-change temperature, color,
and printing adaptability for you, ensuring your product's functionality is one-of-a-kind.

 

Contact Us for a Consultation