What causes delamination between the hydrographic film and the clear coat?

Hydrographic Printing Process & Causes of Film-Clear Coat Delamination

Hydrographic printing utilizes water pressure and an activator to dissolve the release layer of the hydrographic film, transferring its pattern onto the substrate. Clear coat, primarily composed of resins and solvents, forms a transparent coating film and is also known as transparent paint.

Delamination between the hydrographic film and the clear coat during processing can occur due to several key factors:

Incorrect Paint Formulation Ratio: Improper mixing ratio or inadequate amount of curing agent.

Excessive Clear Coat Thickness: Applying the clear coat too heavily.

Contamination During Production: Leading to poor adhesion.

Compatibility Issues: Mismatch between the clear coat and the transferred film/molding.

Incomplete Drying: Residual or trapped moisture after the transfer process not being fully dried before clear coating.

(Among other potential factors).

Applied to the object's surface, the clear coat dries to form a smooth film that reveals the substrate's original texture. As the final step in hydrographic processing, the clear coat protects the printed pattern, ensuring long-lasting durability and vibrant color.