What is the difference between pigment-based, dye-based and ultrachrome inks?
A. Based purely on longevity or light fastness of the inks, pigment-based inks are by far the best. They were originally designed for use in the outdoor sign printing industry because of their resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light. This UV component is what ultimatelyprovides them over 100 years longevity. Dye-based inks on the other hand, offer the least longevity, though they do have potential a slightly larger colour gamut than pigment-based inks. Since dye-based inks do not offer the same inherent UV protection, they can only provide at most 35 to 40 years longevity. Epson’s Ultrachrome inks are a cross between pigment and dye-based inks that bridge the gap by offering more longevity with only a slight decrease in colour gamut. Ultrachrome inks are rated on average at approx. 50 to 70 years longevity. Properly calibrated, pigment-based inks can achieve a very wide gamut that will easily match those of most dye-based and Ultrachrome inks.
