Chromatic Technologies Inc. (CTI) has announced the introduction of its photochromic Sunlight Inks for such applications as paper, film and pressure-sensitive labels. According to the company, Sunlight Inks are a breakthrough in chemistry and the first photochromic inks to provide (1) fast kinetics which turn on rapidly when sunlight hits it, (2) repeatability which enables the ink to turn "on and off" forever, (3) a broad color spectrum offering, as well as (4) durability in the sun.

In development for two years, Sunlight Inks are the result of the specialty inks supplier's proprietary technology. 

“We are committed to helping brands win the summer, tailgating and other popular outdoor usage occasions,” explains Patrick Edson, chief marketing officer for CTI. “Sunlight Inks create ‘theater-in-the hand’ for a brand’s audience: A consumer walks outside and, in seconds, the Sunlight Inks transform from clear to a colorful reminder to apply sun tan lotion, or several garnishes recommendations appear for cocktails, or a surfboard is revealed with a secret code for a mobile app. 

“CTI’s chemists and inventors have a dedicated team innovating in the label markets. Our goal is to ensure every label in the world is interactive with a consumer and that it dramatizes a brand’s positioning,” Edson adds.

Sunlight Inks can be applied to a label or the package container and are available for export across the globe. The inks reportedly scored high in consumer purchase intent (“definitely will buy”) across multiple product categories.

"Consumers noted it’s a great way to entertain guests and give them an excuse to take something new and interesting to a party,” Edson says.