Review of basic chemistry of UV‐curing technology

The market for ultraviolet curing technology has been growing at double‐digit rates in the last 10 years. The main reason for such a rapid technological growth of UV curing is its unique process characteristic, which allow UV‐coating to be applied on virtually any substrates, including plastic, metal, composite, wood, paper, leather, vinyl, glass, magnetic recording tape and even human teeth. The original driving forces behind the commercialisation of UV‐technology were energy saving and freedom from solvents. These benefits are complemented by high productivity and subsequently higher profits that can be achieved with the increased line speed, just‐in‐time benefits and immediate “pack and ship” capabilities. This paper gives a review of the development of the UV curing technology, with emphasis placed on relevant chemistry.