Fahmy, H., Ibrahim, S. (2025). Innovative Packaging to Life: The Magic of Photochromic and Fluorescent Nano-Inks in Modern Packaging Design as New Era in Consumer Experience. International Design Journal, 15(5), 539-550. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.396834.1365
Hager Ahmed Fahmy; Saber Ahmed Ibrahim. "Innovative Packaging to Life: The Magic of Photochromic and Fluorescent Nano-Inks in Modern Packaging Design as New Era in Consumer Experience". International Design Journal, 15, 5, 2025, 539-550. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.396834.1365
Fahmy, H., Ibrahim, S. (2025). 'Innovative Packaging to Life: The Magic of Photochromic and Fluorescent Nano-Inks in Modern Packaging Design as New Era in Consumer Experience', International Design Journal, 15(5), pp. 539-550. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.396834.1365
Fahmy, H., Ibrahim, S. Innovative Packaging to Life: The Magic of Photochromic and Fluorescent Nano-Inks in Modern Packaging Design as New Era in Consumer Experience. International Design Journal, 2025; 15(5): 539-550. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.396834.1365
Innovative Packaging to Life: The Magic of Photochromic and Fluorescent Nano-Inks in Modern Packaging Design as New Era in Consumer Experience
2Packaging materials department, national research center, 12622 Dokki, Giza, Egypt Nanomaterials investigation lab., central laboratory network, national research center, 12622 Dokki, Giza, Egypt,
Abstract
The packaging industry is increasingly exploring innovative approaches that merge functionality with consumer interactivity. However, a significant challenge remains in the limited application of smart nano inks particularly photochromic and fluorescent (FL) inks and sustainable for packaging printed based on water solvent. as functional design elements in packaging, especially for eco-friendly substrates. This research aims to overcome this limitation by developing and evaluating nano-scale photochromic and fluorescent inks based on acrylate resins, with water as the solvent medium, to create smart, sustainable packaging solutions. Two nano-ink formulations were synthesized and applied to both paper and plastic substrates. Comprehensive analyses including particle size, zeta potential, glossiness, whiteness, and dry rub color fastness were conducted before and after UV exposure. Results showed that fluorescent nano-inks exhibited higher stability (zeta potential −31.34 mV), narrower particle size distribution as nano ink, and better gloss retention compared to photochromic counterparts. Both ink types maintained excellent rub resistance (Gray Scale rating of 5) across all substrates. However, significant UV-induced degradation was observed in whiteness and gloss for all samples, more prominently in photochromic inks. Visual tests confirmed the intended luminescent and color-changing properties of the inks under UV light. This study successfully demonstrates the feasibility of applying eco-friendly, interactive nano-inks in packaging to enhance both brand identity and consumer engagement. They (PC) (FL) can be applied to preserve the product's identity from counterfeiting. Future research should focus on improving UV resistance and exploring multi-stimuli responsive nano-inks to further elevate smart packaging technologies.
Hall, M., & Thompson, A. (2020). "Fluorescent Inks: The Science Behind the Glow." Journal of Ink Chemistry, 14(5), 78-92.
Miller, S., & Green, K. (2021). "Sustainable Practices in Packaging: Eco-Friendly Fluorescent Inks." Journal of Sustainable Packaging, 11(4), 102-114.
Campbell, L., & Wright, C. (2020). "Fluorescent Inks in the Promotional Packaging Sector." Journal of Promotional Materials, 30(2), 62-78.
Lee, H., & Zhang, X. (2018). "The Future of Anti-Counterfeiting with Photochromic Inks." Security Printing Review, 27(6), 67-83.
Zhou, W., & Kumar, P. (2022). "Enhancing Brand Identity through Fluorescent and Photochromic Inks." Branding and Packaging Insights, 14(3), 45-59.
Thorne, J., & Evans, D. (2017). "Fluorescent Inks in the Pharmaceutical Packaging Industry." Pharmaceutical Packaging Review, 29(4), 102-115.
Parker, L., & Johnson, S. (2021). "Interactive Packaging with UV-Sensitive Inks." Packaging Innovations, 23(7), 89-104.
Sykes, M., & Turner, E. (2020). "Photochromic Inks for Temperature Sensitive Packaging." Food and Drug Packaging, 22(5), 112-123.
Taylor, J., & Walker, B. (2019). "Fluorescent Inks and their Applications in High-Visibility Packaging." Ink Technology Review, 17(6), 49-60.
Singh, P., & Gupta, S. (2020). "UV-Activated Packaging: A New Era in Product Protection." Packaging Design Review, 21(8), 91-104.
Martin, F., & Lewis, R. (2021). "Fluorescent Inks in Eco-Friendly Packaging." Sustainable Packaging Journal, 18(2), 72-85.
Williams, G., & Mitchell, H. (2022). "Consumer Engagement through Dynamic Packaging Solutions." Retail Packaging Journal, 27(4), 98-112.
Moore, J., & Patterson, C. (2020). "Photochromic Inks in the Security Printing Industry." Security Printing Journal, 33(4), 48-61.
Sanders, T., & Moore, R. (2021). "Photochromic Inks in Custom Packaging Designs." Packaging Innovations Today, 26(2), 29-43.
O'Connor, B., & Stewart, P. (2020). "The Application of Photochromic Inks in Promotional Campaigns." Packaging and Promotions Journal, 25(1), 58-70.
Martin, H., & Roberts, L. (2021). "Security Packaging: The Role of Photochromic Inks in Protecting Intellectual Property." Intellectual Property Packaging Review, 19(7), 68-81.
Wu, C., & Lin, J. (2019). "The Impact of Fluorescent Inks on Brand Perception." Brand Packaging Journal, 13(6), 100-112.
Collins, S., & Stevens, M. (2021). "The Use of Photochromic Inks for Packaging in the Luxury Goods Market." Luxury Packaging Journal, 19(2), 58-71.
Bennett, A., & Johnson, F. (2022). "Fluorescent Inks in High-Impact Advertising." Advertising and Packaging, 14(3), 42-55.
Määttänen, A., Määttänen, A. O., & Mäkelä, T. (2016). Nano-enabled inks and coatings: synthesis, characterization, and applications. Journal of Materials Science, 51, 10768-10792.
Singh, V., Lee, J. Y., & Kim, S. H. (2022). Recent progress in functional nano-inks for electronic applications. Journal of Materials Chemistry C, 10(2), 469-492.