Mechanical resistance of multilayer prints on cardboard packaging after different rubbing conditions

Cardboard has emerged as one of the most promising materials for sustainable packaging, given that it is biodegradable, recyclable, and sourced from renewable materials. Print quality and durability on cardboard packaging play a more important role than just aesthetics. Consistent print quality influences purchasing decisions and the perceived product value. Print durability is important, as packaging must maintain its visual integrity across the entire supply chain enduring friction, moisture, temperature changes, and stacking pressure without fading, smearing, or scratching. High-quality, durable prints on cardboard are a requirement that protects the brand, informs the consumer, ensures regulatory compliance, and reinforces the credibility of cardboard as a valid alternative to plastic packaging. This study analyses the mechanical resistance to rubbing on multilayer prints on five most used cardboards in packaging (GC1, GC2, GT4, OF, and KD). Colour change was observed as an indicator of print quality after subdueing the prints to different rubbing conditions. Findings show that the most stable prints were red ones (M+Y) on all tested cardboards, while the greatest changes in hue were observed on brown prints (C+M+Y). The best overall print quality was shown on GC2 and offset (OF) cardboards.