In recent years, the glass industry in China has experienced rapid growth, driven not only by the revitalization of the real estate market and national policies promoting home appliance sales in rural areas but also by the rising demand for pigment carbon black, the most widely used pigment in the glass ink industry.
Glass prints, known for their durability, are predominantly used in the decoration of household appliances, furniture, and construction materials. It is crucial that the printed designs remain intact and colorfast throughout the lifespan of these products. However, achieving this level of durability presents challenges due to glass's inherent difficulty in forming strong bonds with organic materials. Traditional screen-printing inks, which rely on organic resins, often fail to meet the required standards for adhesion, water resistance, and lightfastness on glass surfaces. Consequently, specialized resins and pigments, rigorously tested for their resilience, are essential for glass printing inks.
Another significant development is the introduction of stricter environmental regulations in Europe, particularly regarding the use of heavy metals and allergenic fragrances in products like toys and packaging. These regulations, which expand the list of restricted substances from 8 to 19 heavy metals and impose clear restrictions on 66 allergenic fragrances, place greater demands on domestic manufacturers of coatings, paints, and glass inks. Selecting environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and heat-resistant pigments has become a cornerstone for companies aiming for rapid growth in this evolving market.
Encouragingly, the Chinese glass ink industry is now placing greater emphasis on the environmental performance of ink products, gradually shifting from a sole focus on production costs to a more holistic approach that prioritizes compliance with environmental standards. This transition underscores the industry's commitment to aligning with global practices and expanding its presence in overseas markets.
In conclusion, for companies to achieve sustained success in this dynamic market, it is imperative to maintain a commitment to innovation, ensuring product quality and standards across all aspects of production, from raw materials to manufacturing processes.