Pencil for testing the surface of materials

The surface tension and energy of the surfaces of the materials to be printed determine the adhesion of the deposited ink layer.

High values ​​of surface tension (38-40mN/m) and energy will determine good adhesion, while lower values ​​will determine poor adhesion.

Testing the surface is done using a pencil containing a colored solution.

Applied to a surface with a high surface tension and energy, the solution flows uniformly in a continuous film.

Applied to a surface with a lower surface tension and energy, the solution will remain in the form of spheres and will drip.

Examples of surfaces difficult to print with low surface tension: PE, PP, PS, PTFE, silicone

Examples of surfaces easy to print with high surface tension: PVC, PC, ABS.