2026 Volume 63 Issue 3 Pages 166-173
Our company has developed a structural color inkjet technology that produces vivid colors with angle-dependent optical effects. This technology forms multilayer structures in transparent ink at the light-wavelength scale, generating colors without pigments or dyes. By digitally controlling the ink deposition, the reflected wavelengths can be precisely adjusted, allowing a wide range of colors in the visible spectrum. The printed layer is highly transparent, resulting in color variations influenced by the background color. It also exhibits glossiness and a three-dimensional visual effect, with the colors changing depending on the viewing angle. These features open up new possibilities for creative and striking designs. We developed a simulation technology to predict the color and gloss under various lighting and background conditions, thereby improving the inkjet design accuracy and efficiency. This technology offers potential as a design tool for adding beautiful appearances and textures. It can be combined with conventional finishing methods for richer color expression, and is suitable for unique designs and small-lot, high-mix production that is typical of inkjet printing. We aim to expand the use of this technology to various fields in the future.
