What Is UV Coating?

UV coating is basically a compound that is applied to paper wet and then instantly dried by ultraviolet light. Several different types of compounds are used to coat paper, including polyethylene, calcium carbonate and kaolinite. These compounds are refined and mixed with viscosifiers that help them adhere to paper. UV coatings can vary in reflectivity and thickness, depending on the application, though a high gloss or subtle matte are typically used in premium printing applications. What can be UV coated? Just about anything can be UV coated, though it is worth noting that UV coating typically works best on thicker paper stocks such as PsPrint's 16-point paper stock. This means that business cards, postcards, booklet and calendar covers, catalog covers, flyers and sales sheets make great candidates for UV coating.