Direct and Transfer Thermal Inks

There are two thermal printing methods: direct thermal and thermal transfer. Each method uses a thermal printhead that applies heat to the surface being marked. Direct thermal printing uses chemically treated, heat-sensitive media that blackens when it passes under the thermal printhead, while thermal transfer printing uses a heated ribbon to produce durable, long-lasting images on a wide variety of materials.

CTIC offers ink for direct thermal labels and for thermal transfer labels.  A UV imprintable coating is available for transfer labels and aqueous coatings are available for direct thermal papers.