Polyester-Based Films Are Dimensionally Stable

MacDermid Autotype, the global developer and manufacturer of films and coatings, is demonstrating its entire range of Sigmagraf films at FESPA Digital Printing Europe in Amsterdam.

MacDermid Autotype, the global developer and manufacturer of films and coatings, is demonstrating its entire range of Sigmagraf films at FESPA Digital Printing Europe in Amsterdam.

The Sigmagraf range of specially developed films for graphics displays, point of sale and floor graphics include anti-microbial, anti-glare and anti-graffiti films that are said to be suitable for demanding applications.

The films incorporate a what is claimed to be a high quality, robust polyester base on to which a tough hardcoat outer layer is chemically bonded, giving a dimensionally stable film, that is free from filler materials offering high levels of image resolution and colour rendition.

In addition, two types of inkjet primer are available.

The Plus coating has been developed for use with aqueous pigment inkjet, whilst the UVjet primer is said to be suiable for use with UV curing inkjet printers.

In each case the primer has been designed to provide the maximum levels of ink adhesion, without delaminating or cracking, even under high temperature or humidity conditions in applications with an extreme flex modulus, said the company.

The anti-glare and anti-graffiti properties of Sigmagraf films are created by modifying the surface characteristics of the hardcoat layer to produce a nano-roughened finish.

In developing what is believed to be the first film of its kind in the world, MacDermid Autotype believes it has succeeded in reducing the amount of light reflected by the film at 60 degree angles to less than 55 per cent.

That is said to be a significant achievement over other films that reflect more than 90 per cent of light at the same angle.

The composition of the hard coat layer is scratch, scuff and abrasion proof, meaning that graffiti can be removed without leaving stains or marks, even when using isopropanol solvents, or aqueous detergents repeatedly.

In addition, the Sigmagraf range of films can be used with the new range of printers that Colorspan will be unveiling at FESPA Digital.

MacDermid Autotype believes that will give even further enhanced performance and will open new opportunities for value added applications when the films and printers are used in conjunction with each other.

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