Thermal transfer printers have been long used for high density bar-codes and labels that require longevity as a result of the crispness and durability of the printing. However, while thermal transfer printers can print on paper, film, and even foil substrates, the manufacturing process of thermal transfer ribbons traditionally uses solvents during the coating process, resulting in a higher carbon footprint than in many other printing operations.

Until now.

inAni has introduced the SolFree range of thermal transfer ribbons, which uses a unique solvent free process in the manufacture of the ribbons, making them more eco-friendly and extremely cost efficient than any other thermal transfer ribbons on the market. "The SolFree process is patented, and for the first time allows thermal transfer ribbons to be coated without using solvents," explains Frikkie Koegelenberg, MD of inAni. "This is the only thermal transfer ribbon production process in the world that uses absolutely no solvent, even for the back coating".

He explains that during the traditional TT coating process solvents are generally used to mix some ingredients of the ink and to ensure the fluidity of the ink up to the solidification stage.

"The SolFree process is used on the types of ribbons conventionally coated using solvents, and offers the same printing quality, resistances, sensitivity, and quality as traditional solvent-coated ribbons provide. Users can still access the benefits of thermal transfer printers, such no need for plates or screens, short to medium runs, high resolution, and a wide range of colours, but without worrying about the environmental impact traditional ribbons provide. In addition, the inAni solvent free thermal transfer ribbons offer an improved back coat, providing more protection for the print head."

With today's businesses under increasing pressure to improve waste reduction and sustainability, the inAni solvent free thermal transfer ribbons are a good way for companies to reduce their carbon footprints without having to eliminate thermal transfer printing. "For each SolFree roll used, there is at least 365g of carbon dioxide that is not released into the atmosphere, compared to the traditional manufacturing process for thermal transfer ribbon. For businesses that rely on thermal transfer printing, this is a win-win, offering a reduced carbon footprint with the same quality and benefits," Koegelenberg concludes.