Dye-based inks

Dye-based inks are composed of dyes that dissolve completely in solution, unlike pigment-based inks, which contain tiny particles suspended in the liquid. This characteristic allows dye-based inks to be fully absorbed into the paper, creating an image that is essentially a highly controlled stain. The resulting images are smooth and even, offering a vast range of subtle colors and extremely fine detail.

However, dye-based inks are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV light compared to pigment-based inks and should be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Additionally, because they are soluble, these inks should be protected from water to avoid running. When printed with archival dye-based inks on archival paper, the images can last for at least 70 years if stored under proper conditions.

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