This book has been a long time in the making. Since its beginning the concept has been refined many times. This is a first attempt at a technical book for me and fortunately the goals I have set have been achieved. I have been involved in water based ink evaluation since its unclear begin nings in the early 1970s. This book is fashioned much like a loose-leaf binder I had put together for early reference and guidance. The format has worked for me over the years; I trust it will work for you. I would like to thank the many people who made this book possible, particularly Blackie Academic & Professional for their saint-like patience. Thanks again to W.B. Thiele (Thiele-Engdahl), to Lucille, my wife, and to James and Frank, my two boys. A final and special thank you to Richard Bach who taught me there are no limits."

World-wide environmental legislation limiting the use of solvent based ink systems of the preceding decades has resulted in the development of a substitute and more environmentally safe alternative utilizing water base technologies. This has resulted in an enormous research and development effort by a multiplicity of related industries. Because of the tremendous evolution brought about by these changing technologies it has been extremely difficult for the water base ink chemist to keep abreast of the latest innovations. This book provides a working knowledge of the chemistry and technology of water base ink systems for chemists and engineers in the industry. It provides a foundation in all aspects of the industry, from the perception of color theory to the final starting point formulations. The articles in this volume have been specifically picked out to enlighten some of the most difficult problem areas in formulation and development. Highly practical, it is written by authors with many years of experience in the industry, ensuring commercial relevance throughout.