TOKYO—  Ricoh has formulated a new plant-based inkjet ink which it says is new  for mainstream print applications. The ink uses plant oil and does not require the use of water, meaning no biocides are required. Ricoh claims it had a several of other benifits  ,  low ink consumption because “the same optical density is achievable using 50% less ink”. It is also quick drying, odour-free, does not use monomers – resulting in improved compatibility for food use – and is biodegradable. The ink does not require heat for fixing and drying. Ricoh described rub resistance and set-off performance as “excellent” when printing onto corrugated cardboard. The plant oil is soy bean based and the price will be competitive, taking into consideration the cost saving benefits for ‘no drying’, reduced CO2 emissions and reduced ink laydown, says Ricoh.