Sihl has launched three new 'eco-friendlier' multi-purpose poster papers into the large-format market.
The 'wet-strength' Post-2-Cure Papers have been specially developed by Sihl for use with latest generation latex inks from HP and are suited for both indoor and outdoor use.
"Latex inks are based on an infra-red hardening technique and require their own range of media. Sihl has responded to this need with the launch of Post-2-Cure Paper 125, Post-2-Cure Paper 180 and Post-2-Cure Paper blueback 125 – all high quality wet-strength papers enabling weather and water resistant prints both with the new latex and with UV-hardening inks, whilst remaining compatible with real solvent inks," said Sam Iliaifar, Sihl Group UK.
"This is the eco-friendlier option. These bright white poster papers enable digital services providers to produce prints with a high productivity which are significantly less harmful to the environment and our health than solvent inks. The Post-2-Cure alternatives are in addition to the six solvent-based printing media from the speciality sector which we have already introduced for the HP DesignJet L65500 (the first printer to use the new water-based HP latex ink) and the brand new HP DesignJet 25500," said Iliaifar.
According to Sihl, the poster papers offer impressive color reproduction and correspond to offset-printed posters in terms of surface feel and appearance.
"The heat that has an effect on the paper during processing causes only minimum paper shrinkage—and with these properties the new media promises high-quality, superior poster application," said Iliaifar
Additional features and benefits of the new papers:
Post-2-Cure Paper 125 satin 3741 – 125gsm: This bright white poster paper, with its specially finished surface incorporates a slight barrier coating on the back. It can be used for indoor signs; indoor short-term promotions; city light posters/outdoor light box displays.
Post-2-Cure Paper 180 satin 3742 – 180gsm: This heavyweight poster paper, complete with slight barrier coating on the reverse side can be used for indoor signs and short-term promotions; pop-up displays; city light posters and outdoor light box displays.
Post-2-Cure Paper blueback 125 satin 3740 – 125 gsm: This option with its specially finished surface and barrier coating on the back is suitable for indoor signs and short-term promotions plus billboard and advertising applications. The blue reverse side enhances opacity when wet.
"The new types of print media are also ideal for information signs laminated to panels or with a cold laminate finish or for photorealistic posters," said Iliaifar.