What is the difference between dye sublimation ink and other inks?
Understanding Common Inkjet Inks: Dye, Pigment, and Sublimation
Inkjet printing is one of the most popular and versatile methods for producing documents, photos, and customized products. Whether you’re printing at home or running a business, the fundamentals of inkjet inks remain much the same. Below, we’ll explore their basic makeup and the three main types of ink—dye, pigment, and sublimation—so you can choose the right ink for your needs.
1. Basic Inkjet Ink Formulation
Most inkjet inks share a similar formulation and consist of:
• De-ionized Water as the primary solvent
• Isopropyl Alcohol or Glycol as a drying agent
• Dye Base to provide the color
This combination allows the ink to flow smoothly through the printer’s nozzles and dry quickly on paper. However, the actual performance—such as water-resistance or color vibrancy—varies based on the specific type of ink you use.
2. Dye-Based Inks
How They Work
Dye-based inks dissolve in water the same way sugar does; the dye particles break down completely, resulting in a clear, vibrant solution. These small molecular-sized dyes (1.5–4 nanometers) can penetrate paper fibers more deeply, often producing saturated, brilliant colors.
Pros & Cons
• Pros:
• Highly vibrant and saturated color output
• Flows smoothly in most inkjet printers
• Usually more affordable than other ink types
• Cons:
• Less water-resistant; the dye can re-dissolve if exposed to moisture
• May fade faster in direct sunlight or harsh conditions
Best Uses
• Everyday Document Printing: Letters, school assignments, office work
• Photo Printing on inkjet photo paper
• PVC Cards or other media not subjected to constant moisture or handling
If cost-effectiveness and bright colors are your priority, dye ink is an excellent choice.
3. Pigment Inks
How They Work
Unlike dye-based inks, pigment inks use tiny, encapsulated particles of colored material. Instead of absorbing into the paper fibers, pigments sit on top of the paper surface, adhering more like a thin layer.
Pros & Cons
• Pros:
• Strong water resistance and greater stability
• Longer lifespan (in ideal conditions, prints can last over 200 years)
• Offers more subtle color shading due to the use of multiple ink colors
• Cons:
• Typically more expensive than dye-based inks
• May not produce colors as bright or vibrant as dye inks (though the gap has narrowed with modern formulations)
Best Uses
• T-Shirt Printing on Cotton (especially using transfer paper for dark or light garments)
• Long-Lasting Archival Prints
• Artwork or Professional Photography where longevity is crucial
Choose pigment ink when longevity and water-resistance are top priorities—for instance, printing custom apparel or archival-quality documents.
4. Sublimation Inks
How They Work
Sublimation is a process where ink transitions from a solid to a gas under heat and pressure, bypassing the liquid phase entirely (similar to how dry ice sublimates). These special inks are formulated for heat-transfer printing onto materials containing polyester or polymer coatings.
1. Print the design onto sublimation transfer paper using an inkjet printer loaded with sublimation ink.
2. Apply Heat & Pressure with a heat press machine. The heat turns the ink into gas, allowing it to bond with the polyester fibers or polymer surface.
3. Cool Down to reveal a permanent, vibrant design that won’t crack, peel, or wash away.
Key Considerations
• Substrate Requirements: Hard items like ceramic mugs or metal plates must have a polymer coating. Fabric must be polyester or a high-polyester blend (ideally 65% or more) for the transfer to be successful.
• Time, Temperature, & Pressure: The right combination is critical for achieving the best print quality.
Best Uses
• Customized Mugs, Tumblers, and Plates
• Polyester Apparel (e.g., sports jerseys)
• Promotional Items like mouse pads, phone cases, and keyrings
Sublimation excels at producing full-color, photographic-quality images and is ideal if you’re focusing on polyester-based products.
5. Choosing the Right Ink for Your Needs
1. Dye Inks:
• Budget-friendly and produce brilliant colors
• Best for everyday printing and photos where water-resistance isn’t a major concern
2. Pigment Inks:
• Longer lasting, water-resistant prints
• Ideal for cotton-based T-shirts (with transfer paper) or archival prints
3. Sublimation Inks:
• Specialized for transferring onto polyester fabrics or polymer-coated surfaces
• Delivers vibrant, permanent designs that resist fading and peeling
6. Final Thoughts
Ink choice significantly impacts print quality, durability, and cost. Understanding the differences between dye, pigment, and sublimation inks can help you pick the best option for your specific project—whether that’s creating vibrant everyday prints, long-lasting T-shirt graphics, or professional-grade promotional products. By matching the right ink to the right medium, you’ll ensure your images look their best and stand the test of time.