Introduction and application of irreversible thermochromic ink

Irreversible thermochromic ink is a special ink that causes irreversible color change due to temperature changes. 

Irreversible thermochromic inks undergo a permanent color change when heated to a certain temperature and do not return to their original color upon cooling. They develop or fade upon heating to a preset temperature (60°C-120°C) and do not return to their original color upon cooling. These inks are water-based and can be applied to absorbent materials such as paper via screen printing or gravure printing. The solvent is water only; contact with other solvents will render them ineffective. The color change range includes colorless to black, blue, and red, as well as color to colorless.

These inks are available in multiple product lines based on their temperature sensitivity ranges (e.g., 60°C, 70°C, 80°C, 100°C, and 120°C), with variants also offering multiple functionalities such as glow-in-the-dark and UV-sensitive options. They are primarily used in anti-counterfeiting packaging (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, and pharmaceuticals), thermal display coatings, and temperature monitoring labels. A one-time color reaction verifies product shipping and storage temperatures or sterilization compliance. Stir thoroughly before use to prevent settling and avoid prolonged contact with metal containers. Drying time is longer than with solvent-based inks.

Trust colors provide inks including: thermochromic ink reversible & irreversible, photochromic ink, invisible uv fluorescent ink, optical variable ink, Hydrochromic Ink…

In summary, irreversible thermochromic ink is an efficient, economical and reliable disposable temperature history recording tool that plays a vital role in ensuring product quality, public safety and equipment reliability.