Colorimetric stability of printed paperboard packaging under different rubbing conditions

The aim of this research was to evaluate the colorimetric stability of different paperboard packaging including
luxury, folding, food, classic and transport packaging. Spectrophotometric values (L*, a*, b*) of solid area printed
with offset inks on five paperboard packaging materials (GC1, GC2, GT4, OF, and KD) were measured before
and after different rubbing conditions. The corresponding colorimetric differences (ΔE00) were calculated from
these values. Rubbing test was performed for 20 and 40 rotations using a 1-pound load. All the samples showed
negligible color changes confirmed with ΔE00 values below the visual perception threshold. The intensity of color
change depended on both the substrate and the printed ink. Black prints on all paperboards showed the highest
ΔE00 values, indicating higher sensitivity to rubbing. The highest colorimetric stability of prints was achieved on
paperboards GC1 and GC2. All paperboard packaging materials analyzed show adequate colorimetric stability
for wide range of packaging applications.