Kornit’s Digital Printing Glossary
Color Bonding Definition
Color Bonding Definition
Color bonding is the interaction between the dye and the fabric fibers. The type of bonding interaction depends on the type of dye and the type of fabric used. Different classes of dyes attach to fibers via different forms of bonding. Most types of dye-fiber interactions can be classified as either a physical or a chemical interaction.
Acid inks require the fabric to be pre-treated for fixation and are printed directly to the textile, and then steamed to set the ink. The dyes that make up acid ink create ionic or electrostatic bonds with textiles such as silk, wool, and nylon. Reactive inks contain dyes that create chemical bonds with pretreated fabric types such as linen, rayon, nylon and other cellulosic materials. Dispersed inks are infused into the fabric and actually dye the fabric, becoming part of the textile itself. Dispersed inks are broken down into low-energy, medium-energy and high-energy dispersion. Dye sublimation inks are low-energy dyes, most typically used to transfer printing from paper to fabric. Pigment inks are finely ground powders suspended in liquid carriers with binders. Pigments are bonded to natural fabrics using binders and a heat calender process.
Kornit’s advanced textile printers were developed in order to provide unmatched color bonding, with sustainable, eco-friendly inks and no need in pretreatment. Learn more about Kornit’s DTG printing solutions, and discover unparalleled printing quality, speed and performance.
