Water-borne aluminium paste is rapidly becoming the preferred metallic pigment for modern printing inks. As environmental standards tighten, printers and ink formulators are shifting to safer, more stable formulations without losing brightness or metallic appeal

What is Water-Borne Aluminium Paste for Ink?

Water-borne aluminium paste refers to aluminium pigment formulated specifically for aqueous ink systems.
The aluminium powder used has a narrow particle size distribution, minimizing gas formation and preventing instability. These pigments often come in passivated, single-coated, or double-coated forms to increase performance

With modern surface treatments (inorganic or silica coatings), the aluminium flakes remain stable in water-based resins, ensuring minimal gassing and safer handling.

Narrow Particle Size & Coating Quality

Water-borne aluminium paste’s excellence begins with particle control.
High-quality grades are manufactured using aluminium powder with uniform particle size, ensuring:

• Consistent metallic gloss

• Smooth dispersion in resin

• Minimal gas evolution from reactions with water

This precision delivers stable storage and reliable performance in printing ink systems

Surface Treatment Enhances Safety

To prevent hydrogen gas generation from aluminium reacting with water, surface coatings are critical. Typical treatments include:

• Inorganic coatings to reduce gas production

• Single or double coating layers for improved protection

• Passivation techniques to increase storage safety

This technology significantly reduces gassing and enhances safety during ink manufacturing and storage.

Compatibility & Storage Benefits

Water-borne aluminium paste excels in:

• Formulating with a wide range of water-based resins

• Consistent dispersion and minimal particle settling

• Strong adhesion and uniform metallic orientation

Its storage stability also improves when mixed with the proper resin system.

Applications / Performance Comparison

Water-borne aluminium paste delivers eco-friendly brilliance across various ink applications:

Comparison: Water-borne vs. Solvent-based Aluminium Paste

Despite slightly higher production costs due to advanced coating technology, water-borne aluminium paste significantly reduces VOC handling expenses and aligns with strict global environmental directives.

Common Questions About Water-Borne Aluminium Paste for Ink

Q1: Does water-borne aluminium paste react with water?
A: Advanced grades use surface treatment to prevent reaction and gas formation.

Q2: Can it match the metallic brightness of solvent-based pigments?
A: Modern water-borne variants achieve up to ~85-95% of solvent brightness.

Q3: Is gas generation a safety issue in printing ink storage?
A: High-quality formulations produce minimal gas thanks to controlled coatings and narrow particle distribution.

Q4: How should it be stored?
A: Store in a cool, dry place and avoid mixing with reactive additives. Proper storage increases shelf life and performance.

Call to Action

Water-borne aluminium paste sets a new standard for environmentally friendly, high-performance metallic inks. Its precise particle control, safe surface treatments, and compatibility with modern aqueous resins make it essential for ink formulators aiming for sustainable brilliance.

For premium water-borne aluminium paste tailored to your ink system, contact the experts at ZHANGQIU METALLIC PIGMENT CO., LTD.
Visit: https://zqmetallic.com/
Email: info@zqmetallic.com