APPLICATION GUIDE · AUG 2026

How to select a pigment dispersion for DTF ink.

A DTF formulation discussion becomes more useful when it begins with the actual print route, colour set and transfer target—not a request for a generic colour sample.

DTF inkWater-based inkjet dispersionTransfer printing

START WITH THE PROCESS

DTF is a complete system, not one component.

The pigment dispersion must be evaluated together with the resin or binder, humectants, surfactants, white-ink interaction, film, powder, curing conditions and intended fabric result. A compatible colourant cannot by itself guarantee transfer performance.

This guide is a development checklist. Confirm current TDS, SDS, applicable compliance requirements and finished-ink performance before commercial use.

THE FIRST TECHNICAL BRIEF

Bring these five inputs to the discussion.

  1. 01

    Print equipment and printhead

    State the printer, printhead, filtration route, circulation arrangement and target print mode.

  2. 02

    Colour system

    Identify the target colour set, including any white-ink route, desired gamut and application-specific colour priorities.

  3. 03

    Ink vehicle direction

    Describe the resin or binder approach, humectant and additive framework, and the physical-property targets already established.

  4. 04

    Transfer construction

    Describe film, powder, curing or pressing process, fabric types and the expected end-use condition.

  5. 05

    Validation plan

    Agree the measurements and observations that will be used to decide whether the complete ink system is ready to move forward.

WHAT TO REVIEW WITH A DISPERSION

Use current product-specific data.

Particle and filtration fit

Review current particle-size information in relation to the intended filtration route and printhead requirements.

Formulation measurements

Set the appropriate solid content, viscosity, pH, conductivity and surface-tension checks for the complete ink.

Storage and operation

Assess storage, transport, circulation and print behaviour under conditions that match the planned use.

A BETTER SAMPLE REQUEST

Ask for a starting point with context.

A useful request identifies the colour, chemistry platform under consideration, print equipment, formulation direction and test plan. That lets the technical discussion focus on evidence needed for the system rather than unsupported “works for DTF” claims.

See AIC-WHITE S701 for white-ink evaluation context →

DTF FORMULATION DISCUSSION

Share the print and transfer brief.

Tell us the printer, printhead, colour target, ink system, film and validation priorities to start an evidence-based DTF discussion.

Discuss a DTF ink project →