As a relatively new owner of an Epson 3880 who is enjoying learning to print, I have a question about Photo (PK) and Matte (MK) black inks? What actually is different about them?
I know that PK black is used on glossy/pearl/luster prepared surfaces and the MK is used on matte surfaced papers, but what is actually different about the inks? The matte papers carry a heavier load of ink so presumably the MK ink must have to be able to soak in more before drying, and conversely the PK ink probably drys faster on luster surfaces? Does that suggest that different solvents are used or different amounts of the same solvent in their formulations? What is the solvent/carrier fluid/adhesive used to stick the pigment particles to the paper? I'm sure that the "black" color is carbon, but the PK ink looks darker. Is that due largely to higher reflectance or is the composition of the black pigment in PK inks different.
Also from a health prospective, does anyone know if pigment printers should be used in well ventilated locations so the solvents from these inks can disperse quickly.