Metallized Paper And Metallic Inks: What Are the Differences?

Metallized paper and metallic inks are two popular options for adding metallic finishes to packaging, labels, and other printed materials. While they can achieve similar effects, there are some key differences between the two.

Metallized Paper:

Metallized paper, also known as foil laminated paper or metalized paper, is a type of paper that has a thin layer of metal, typically aluminum, applied to one or both sides. This metal layer is typically bonded to the paper using a heat or adhesive process.

The benefits of using metallized paper include its ability to create a high-quality, metallic finish that is scratch and water-resistant. Additionally, metallized paper can provide a barrier to light and oxygen, making it a popular choice for food packaging and other products that require a high level of protection.

Non Wet Strength Holographic Metallized Paper

Metallized paper is available in a range of colors and finishes, including gold, silver, and holographic. It is also available in different thicknesses and can be printed using a variety of printing techniques, including offset, flexography, and gravure.

One downside to using metallized paper is that it can be more expensive than using other printing techniques. Additionally, the metal layer can make it difficult to recycle, which can be a concern for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact.

Metallic Inks:

Metallic inks are a type of ink that contains small particles of metal, typically aluminum, copper, or bronze, suspended in a liquid base. When printed onto paper or other materials, these metal particles reflect light, creating a metallic finish.

The benefits of using metallic inks include their ability to create a high-quality, metallic finish that is more affordable than using metallized paper. Additionally, metallic inks can be printed onto a variety of materials, including paper, plastic, and metal.

Metallic inks are available in a range of colors and finishes, including gold, silver, and bronze. They can be printed using a variety of printing techniques, including offset, flexography, and digital printing.

One downside to using metallic inks is that they can be less durable than other printing techniques, such as metallized paper. Metallic inks can be prone to scratching and fading over time. Additionally, the metallic particles in the ink can settle over time, requiring the ink to be stirred or agitated before use.

 Wet Strength Holographic Metalized Paper

Differences Between Metallized Paper and Metallic Inks:

There are several key differences between metallized paper and metallic inks that are important to consider when selecting a printing technique for your project.

• Appearance: Metallized paper typically provides a brighter and more reflective finish than metallic inks. Metallized paper can also create a holographic or iridescent effect, which is more difficult to achieve with metallic inks.

• Durability: Metallized paper is typically more durable than metallic inks, with a scratch and water-resistant finish that can last longer than metallic inks. Metallic inks can be prone to scratching and fading over time.

• Cost: Metallic inks are generally more affordable than metallized paper, making them a popular choice for companies looking to achieve a metallic finish without breaking the bank.

• Compatibility: Metallized paper is not compatible with all printing techniques and may require special equipment or processes to be printed effectively. Metallic inks, on the other hand, can be printed using a variety of printing techniques. 

• Environmental Impact: Metallized paper can be more difficult to recycle than other printing techniques, which can be a concern for companies looking to reduce their environmental impact. Metallic inks, on the other hand, can be more eco-friendly and can be printed using soy-based inks and other sustainable materials.

Y.F metallized papers are sustainable and easy to recycle. We are a leading metallized paper manufacturer for a variety of labeling and packaging applications, including wet strength labels, pressure sensitive labels, holographic metalized paper and more. Click here for more products.