Comparing VOC and Environmental Safety: Water Based vs. Solvent Free vs. Solvent Based Adhesives and Inks
Posted on June 16, 2025
In today’s environmentally conscious market, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to reduce VOC emissions and adopt safer, more sustainable materials. Whether you’re producing flexible packaging, coatings, or labeling products, understanding the differences between water based, solvent free, and solvent based adhesives and inks is essential for making informed decisions.
VOC & Environmental/Safety Comparison Table
| Property | Water Based Adhesives/Inks | Solvent Free Adhesives/Inks | Solvent Based Adhesives/Inks |
| VOC Content | Low to very low | Very low to zero | High |
| Air Quality Impact | Minimal impact; reduces indoor air pollution | Minimal to none; improves workplace air quality | High contribution to indoor/outdoor air pollution |
| Worker Safety | Safer; lower risk of inhalation exposure | Safest; minimal toxic exposure | Requires PPE; higher health risks |
| Flammability | Typically non-flammable | Non-flammable | Highly flammable |
| Odor | Mild to no odor | No odor | Strong, potentially irritating |
| Environmental Impact | Lower footprint; easier to dispose | Very eco-friendly; minimal waste | Potential soil/water contamination; more hazardous waste |
| Disposal Requirements | Generally non-hazardous | Simplified; not classified as hazardous waste | Complex and regulated as hazardous waste |
| Energy Consumption in Drying | Moderate; water must be evaporated | Low; often UV/chemically cured | High; energy-intensive solvent evaporation |
| Regulatory Compliance | Easier to meet EPA/OSHA standards | Typically exceeds safety/environmental standards | Faces strict regulation and reporting requirements |
| Performance vs. Solvent-Based | Comparable; improving with innovation | Often superior for structural uses | Strong track record but being phased out due to health/environmental risks |
Final Thoughts
While solvent based systems have long been the industry standard due to performance and versatility, the trade-offs in terms of health, safety, and environmental impact are becoming harder to justify. Water based and especially solvent free formulations now offer comparable—if not superior—performance in many applications, without the burden of hazardous emissions or costly compliance.
As sustainability continues to drive purchasing and regulatory decisions, now is the time for manufacturers to assess their material choices. Reach out to us at: contactus@cadprod.com to learn how our flexible packaging materials not only protect your products but also your workforce, bottom-line and the environment!