Consumables
Agfa Materials Launches SYNAPS, a New High-Quality Synthetic Paper
Wednesday 19. March 2008 - SYNAPS, with excellent printability, fast drying time, to be demonstrated at drupa 2008.
Agfa Materials announced today that it will launch SYNAPS, a newly-developed, polyester-based, synthetic paper for use on offset printing presses. The material, which is noted for its superior printability and exceptionally fast drying time, will be shown for the first time at drupa 2008.
SYNAPS, which is based on a modified polyester base, enables a print quality that distinguishes it from existing competitive media, even when used with standard offset inks. SYNAPS’ fast drying time also allows for the quick turnaround that printers strive for.
As the new synthetic paper can be used with standard inks, it can be used on all offset printing presses, as well as UV inkjet printers. SYNAPS is available in a wide range of weights suitable for a wide variety of applications that have high demands on material robustness, or where the distinct nature of SYNAPS is valued. It can even be used in harsh outdoor environments since it is also resistant to water, tearing, and UV light. Developed by Agfa engineers, SYNAPS uses a new dedicated and patented formulation and manufacturing process, which creates voids in the polyester substrate to make it white and opaque. The material is coated on both sides with a special ink-receiving layer that not only provides a unique printability, but also gives it a distinct look and feel of a luxury paper.
“Agfa’s expertise and know-how in making film and in coating processes has allowed us to develop a new material that is easy-to-print, with superb image quality and a high-class look and feel,” said Jo Vander Aa, New Business Marketing & Application, Agfa Materials. “SYNAPS will also offer a durability equal to or better than any other synthetic paper on the market today.”
The results of successful pre-marketing tests of SYNAPS at printers in Germany and Belgium will be shown at drupa. The product will be made available in the marketplace immediately after the show.