Top Applications of Aqueous Coating in Packaging and Printing

Aqueous Coating for packaging

Aqueous coating is the jewel of lamination and coatings for packaging companies. It offers durability, protection, and sustainability. 
Do you know, aqueous coating has also its types? Each type offers different services, benefits, uses, and applications. Let us define aqueous coating, its different types, and the applications of each aqueous coating in depth.

What Is Aqueous Coating? 

what is aqueous coating

Aqueous coating is a transparent finish that is used to enhance the beauty of the packaging solution as well as for its protection. It increases the protection, appearance, and value of the product. Among other finishing options, AQ coating is sustainable and eco-friendly, loved by different packaging companies who prioritize sustainability, eco-friendliness, protection, appearance, and budget.

Almost every type of goods packaging needs the finishing, and brands have a lot of options for that. The very finishing belongs to them and is used to attract customers and highlight the market presence of the product. It is also called flood coating as it covers the whole surface of the packaging material. It is a versatile type of coating that takes little time to dry. Not only that, but also it is applied on the surface during the printing process, so there are more options to get the best of its appearance on the paper sheet.

Why do Brands Choose Aqueous Coating?

why do brands choose aq coating

Aqueous coating is a popular lamination choice among packaging brands due to its eco-friendly properties, affordability, and versatility. This water-based coating protects against fingerprints, scratches, and scuffs. 

It is ideal for packaging and printing companies seeking an environmentally conscious solution that maintains the integrity of their packaging. Brands also prefer aqueous coatings because they dry quickly, streamlining the production process.

How Aqueous Coating Enhances Packaging Durability

Aqueous coating is also a durable option for packaging companies. It not only beautifies packaging but also strengthens it. Moreover, it adds a durable layer that protects against common wear and tear. Apart from that, it saves from exposure to moisture and handling during shipping.

Its scuff-resistant properties help maintain the product's appearance, ensuring that packaging remains visually appealing over time. Additionally, the aqueous coating is resistant to yellowing, increasing the packaging’s lifespan and keeping branding consistent.

Types Of Aqueous Coatings and Their Applications in Packaging

types of aqueous coatings

A few types of aqueous coating are placed on the paper surface according to the brand’s demand and requirements. These types fall from the dullest to the glossiest. Gloss AQ coating is the shiny one and matte and soft touch are the dullest ones. Dry erase and satin are the stand in the middle. Let's have a look briefly.

Gloss AQ Coating: It is a brighter and shiny type of coating. The brands that want to have a glossy but silent surface, it is the best option for them. But for those who want bold and obtrusive finishing, then spot UV coating and lamination is a prime choice for them. Gloss AQ coating is a premium and suitable option for almost every brand.

Matte Coating: It is the less shiny and brighter version of flood coating. It creates a dull impression on the surface. The only thing it is better for is the color intensity. The color visuals on this type of finishing are just astonishing and attract the customers at large.

Dry Erase AQ Coating: When a brand or company does not want to use lamination to make the burnished, they intend to have the dry-erase finishing touch for their packaging product. It is almost shiny and bright like the lamination finishing, but consumes fewer pennies as compared to it. Brands love it for their Display Boxes and labels.

Satin Coating: Scuff-resistance coatings are ideal for companies. Satin AQ coating is one of them. It is a scuff resistor and less shiny as compared to gloss coating.

Soft Touch AQ Coating: Brands want to create a soft touch in their product packaging. Soft touch water-based finishing is a prime option for them. As it creates a velvety texture on the surface. It feels very soft and pleasant when someone touches the surface of the printed boxes. Also, it gives less shine and sometimes looks dark.

Protective Features Of Aqueous Coating Are Just Admirable

There are two purposes of the finishing: to make the outer look of the packaging solution and to protect the paper sheet from any kind of harm. The flood coating for packaging is very durable and sturdy. It is very resistant to fingerprints, scuffs, and scratches. When people touch the custom-printed boxes to take a look at the product.

Their fingers leave prints on them, also while shipping and storing the custom boxes get scratches and scuffs on them. AQ finishing is very protective for packaging material against all these harmful situations. It is more flexible and stays with its original colors for a long time. Unlike the varnish, there are few chances to get it yellow. The durability and reliability are the features that attract the customers most.

Advantages of Using Aqueous Coating for Packaging Products

advantages of using aqueous

Why choose aqueous coating for packaging? It offers several advantages. It is cost-effective and provides long-lasting protection. Apart from that, it is eco-friendly, water-based formula is biodegradable. 

Moreover, aqueous coating is versatile. It offers various finishes like gloss, matte, and soft-touch. Plus, its heat resistance and flexibility under pressure further enhance packaging durability. 

It ensures product safety, protection, sustainability, and appearance so that products remain safe and visually appealing during handling and shipping.

Benefits of aqueous coating in packaging

  • Cost-efficient
  • Last for a long time
  • Eco-friendly
  • Versatility and uniqueness
  • Flexible
  • Bear heat
  • Ability to resist pressure
  • Stay strong against sudden situations.

How to Choose the Right Packaging Coating for Your Brand

From many AQ coating options, what should be your priority, and what will you decide for different packaging? Let us decode this.

For a high-gloss, eye-catching finish, Gloss AQ Coating is ideal for brands seeking to make a bold statement. If beauty and sophistication are key, Matte Coating provides a sleek, non-reflective finish that enhances color depth. For packaging that requires durability and scuff resistance, Satin or Dry Erase AQ Coatings offer a balance of protection and aesthetics. If creating a premium, tactile experience is a priority, Soft Touch Coating adds a luxurious, velvety feel. 

Note: Consider factors such as budget, durability needs, and the desired brand image when selecting the best coating.

Conclusion

Aqueous coating is very beneficial for brands and companies who want the most elegant and decent packaging for their products. The cost efficiency is another reason to have this type of finishing. Although it may not be able to stand in extreme conditions, in the end, it is a prime option for brands to give an astonishing look to their product boxes.

Custom Designs Boxes is a packaging company that finishes printed packaging solutions with AQ coating in a premium quality and artistically attractive way. Place your order and get distinctive and unique coated boxes in minimum turn-around time with no shipping charges all across the USA.

Must Read: What Embossing Is: The Best Way To Add Elegance And Texture To Prints

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