Question
What is aqueous coating and how does it differ from UV coating?
Answer
Both are clear protective finishes, but they cure differently and land at different price and recyclability points.
| Aqueous | UV | |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Water-based | Plastic-based |
| Cures with | Heat and air, inline on press | Ultraviolet light |
| Layer | Thin, clear | Thicker, harder, glossier |
| Cost | More affordable | Higher |
| Recycling | Easier, more eco-friendly | Harder to recycle |
Choose aqueous for value and easy recycling, and UV when you want the most intense gloss.
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