DRY-KIN: DESY and Canon Production Printing research drying processes for the printing technology of the future

The efficiency and precision of printing technologies depend to a large extent on the drying of the ink. But which physical and chemical mechanisms play a role in this and how can they be optimized? DESY and Canon Production Printing are working together on the DRY-KIN research project to get to the bottom of these questions. By using highly developed analytical methods, new insights are to be gained that can lead to more efficient printing processes and improved ink formulations in the long term.
At the kick-off meeting at Canon Production Printing's Poing site, the project partners discussed initial measurement results from large-scale research facilities and defined the next steps. The exchange directly at the printing presses provided valuable insights into industrial requirements.

New analysis methods for a better understanding of processes
At the heart of the project is the use of DESY's highly developed X-ray analysis methods to investigate the drying of inks on a microscopic level. In addition, a specially developed measuring chamber will be used to enable detailed analysis of the drying of inks under real industrial conditions for the first time. This combination of large-scale research and practical application is intended to produce innovative approaches for future printing technologies through Canon Production Printing.

Interdisciplinary collaboration as the key to success
“The combination of DESY's advanced analytical methods and Canon Production Printing's expertise in printing technology offers a unique opportunity to explore this topic in a completely new way,” says Stephan Roth, head of the Sustainable Materials Group (FS-SMA) at DESY.
The support of Hi-Acts, which bridges the gap between research and industry with its program, provides particular added value. The joint doctoral student Simon Schraad is taking part in a work shadowing program that further intensifies the exchange between the two worlds and promotes the transfer of knowledge.
The next project meeting is already being planned. In the coming months, further experiments will be carried out to gain new insights into the drying process of inks and to test the applicability of the research results in industrial practice.