Leuco Dye Game Changer in Graphics Art

Leuco dyes consist of a medium (or solvent), a chemical that develops color, and a color-emitting agent that together produces the color. Bisphenol A, acid white clay, a green pigment, crystalline violet lactone, thermosensitive green, and others are examples of chromogenic compounds that are frequently utilized. It functions in the reaction as an electron donor.

Expanding the use of thermochromic inks based on leuco dye, particularly in the packaging industry where they provide consumers a unique and attractive experience. As a result, it is anticipated to fuel market expansion. In addition, according to a research report by Astute Analytica, the Global Leuco Dye Market is likely to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% over the projection period from 2023 to 2031.

Properties of leuco dyes

Leuco Dyes react to temperature variations by changing color.  These dyes are reversible, which means that as the temperature changes, they alternately change color. The leuco dyes change color after a temperature fluctuation of roughly 5ºF (3ºC).

The range of activation temperatures includes low refrigeration-type temperatures, normal body temperatures, and high temperatures over the pain threshold.

Touch Activated Thermochromic Ink will disappear when brushed or touched to reveal a picture or another color printed beneath. (Colour to Clear at 88ºF/31ºC)

Cold Activated Thermochromic Ink is utilized on packaging and labels to produce a color change upon cooling. (Clear to Colour at 59ºF / 15ºC)

The color of High-Temperature Thermochromic Ink is intended to change just below the pain threshold, warning quality and process control users of a safety danger too Hot! (Colour to Clear at 117ºF /47ºC).

Usage of Leuco dye

Leuco Dye products are also offered in a wide range of colors, temperatures, and forms in addition to powder, slurry, epoxy, water- and solvent-based ink, and masterbatch.

Leuco Dyes may be utilized in a wider variety of inks, polymers, and other materials than liquid crystals and are more durable and affordable. They are employed in applications where wider temperature fluctuations are prevalent or where temperature accuracy is less critical because they are less sensitive than other thermometer materials. UV radiation, extremely high or low temperatures, and contact with corrosive solutions all shorten the life of dyes.

Applications for advertising, quality control, and promotion, product labeling, toys, gaming components, and packaging are just a few examples that come to mind. These dyes breathe life into printed goods and provides people the chance to engage and thrill their audience with a design or component that changes color in response to temperature. Excellent for controlling processes and manufacturing where a visible indicator will support temperature management.

The function of Leuco Dyes

Leuco colors behave differently than regular colors; they need a special system or chemical combination. Microencapsulation is a method used to protect this special combination of components. The microencapsulation method involves first removing a microscopic droplet from the dye system and enclosing it in a barrier wall coating. This process is well-illustrated by the photomicrograph. microcapsules that house the whole thermochromic color-changing system.