Analysis of Gums Used in Inks and Fountain Solutions

An analytical method was developed using GC and GC/MS to characterize some common types of polysaccharides used in litho fountain solutions and as additives to printing ink binders. Results of the analysis of Gum Arabic, Carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), Ethyl hydroxyl cellulose (EHC) and Hydroxy ethyl cellulose (HEC) will be discussed. Results of the analysis of Gum Arabic, Carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), Ethyl hydroxyl cellulose (EHC) and Hydroxy ethyl cellulose (HEC) will be discussed. Examples will be given showing how the technique was used to identify the type and amount of gum in fountain solutions. Also the presence of EHEC in yellow Publication Gravure inks was detected and the type of cellulosic particles seen in plate and blanket contamination characterized.