An example of satin vs matte coating using the same eco-solv machine and ink in a mixed lighting environment.
The original poster is printing to a non-textured, matte SAV wallcovering media (Avery MPI 2611), and his customer is complaining about the glossiness of the eco-solvent ink being used. This issue is referred to as gloss differential, and it can be a problem with decor applications like wallcoverings. Many current eco-solvent inksets are developed for (and mostly used for) display applications like signage, where high gloss and color 'pop' are widely perceived to be beneficial for
sign and display applications.
Those same ink properties can be more problematic in decor applications like wallcoverings, depending on the media being used. Use of laminates (film or liquid) would be the only recourse in cases where gloss differential is objectionable to the end-user. Different inksets will also show varying amounts of abrasion/ scratch resistance and resistance to chemical breakdown. All of these should be taken into consideration by the
sign company, based on the unique requirements of the project.