New Green Chemicals Combat Surge In IPA Prices

Printers are being warned to prepare for prolonged increases in the price of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) one of the industry's most used consumables.

Printers are being warned to prepare for prolonged increases in the price of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) one of the industry's most used consumables.

The recent surge in oil prices means the cost of IPA is bound to soar, with some industry analysts predicting it will hit an all time high within the next few months, said Hydro-Dynamic Products (HDP).

The company added that IPA suppliers have told it to expect what were described as higher and prolonged price rises as a result of turmoil in the oil markets.

To help counter that development, HDP has just launched its new Enviro range of 'green' pressroom chemicals manufactured from renewable resources and including a fountain solution that is said to reduce IPA content to as low as two per cent.

HDP managing director David Sheard said: "There are rumours circulating that oil is predicted to hit $100 dollars a barrel by the middle of next year and already the cost of IPA is rising again after a period of fairly stable prices following a peak a year ago." He urged printers still reluctant to give up IPA-based products in favour of greener alternatives to think seriously about future availability.

He added: "IPA production is already being reduced in the UK where only one refinery is now in operation and we're becoming increasingly dependent on imports.

In effect, printers will be at the mercy of raw material suppliers but there are alternatives.

Fount solution concentrates with nil or reduced IPA content are now as technically efficient as traditional products and require very little press adjustment and they don't cost any more.

There's never been a better time to go for IPA-free consumables, not only because they're better for the environment but because it's sound business sense too.".

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