Newsletter #6 – Innovating Heating Elements with Loctite® PTC Inks
At Tetrachim, in partnership with Henkel, we bring you next-generation heating solutions with Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) inks.
These inks deliver energy-efficient heating that automatically regulates itself at a defined temperature range.
Here is an update on these innovative and safe inks to create printed, lightweight, and self-regulating heaters.
Why PTC Inks?
The amount of heat a heater produces depends on two things: how much electrical resistance it has and how much voltage is applied to it. See how it works in the graphs below:
In a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating element, resistance stays steady at first. But once the heater reaches a certain temperature—called the PTC point— resistance starts to rise quickly. As a result, the heater naturally reduces the amount of power it uses, preventing the temperature from going any higher.
This means the heater automatically regulates its own temperature without needing any external controls. That’s why it’s called a self-regulating heater!
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The PTC inks are carbon-based products with different “switch off” temperatures for low voltage (<50 Volt) applications. They can be applied by screen printing and are compatible with polyester foil, several silver inks, dielectric inks and spacer tapes.
Main Benefits
- Self-regulating: no overheating risk
- Energy-efficient: reduces unnecessary power consumption
- Thin & flexible: easily integrated into modern designs
- Versatile: available in a wide range of temperature settings
Loctite® PTC Ink Portfolio by Henkel
Below is the LOCTITE® PTC inks range by Henkel, ranked by self-regulation temperature:
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Product | Self-Regulating Temperature | Voltage Suitability | Key Applications |
| LOCTITE® ECI 8040 | ~40°C | < 50 V | Gentle heating, healthcare, wearables | |
| LOCTITE® ECI 8001 | ~55–60°C | < 50 V | Seat heating, heated mirrors | |
| LOCTITE® ECI 8060 HV | ~55–60°C | 100–250 V | Automotive battery heating, transport | |
| LOCTITE® ECI 8090 | ~80–85°C | < 50 V | Industrial & transport floor heating | |
| LOCTITE® ECI 8120 | ~100–105°C | < 50 V | High-temperature applications |
In addition, Henkel offers a full range of highly conductive silver inks compatible with PTC inks, ensuring optimal design flexibility and reliability.
Other inks allowing to print heating elements are also available within the Henkel range for printed electronics:
Resistive Heaters:
Resistive Carbon inks such as Loctite® EDAG 6017 SS and Loctite® EDAG PM-404 (can be blended).
Transparent Heaters:
Fine line or formable silver inks for clear heating applications such as Loctite® ECI 1006 or Loctite® ECI 1501.
Key Applications
Our lives are shaped by the environments we move through—cars, homes, workplaces, hospitals, and even the clothes we wear. PTC inks bring comfort into each of these spaces, making everyday experiences warmer, safer, and more enjoyable.
- In automotive settings, they keep us safe on cold mornings with defrosted windows, heated mirrors, and warm seats.
- In public transport, they enhance passenger well-being with heated floors and handrails.
- In textiles, they allow us to wear heated jackets and gloves, keeping the body comfortable in harsh conditions.
- In healthcare, they provide gentle, reliable warmth through heated blankets and beds, improving both patient comfort and care.
- And in the home, they make daily routines more pleasant with fog-free mirrors, warm towels, and cozy heated water-beds.
Wherever warmth is needed, PTC inks deliver it safely, efficiently, and with comfort at the core.
Ready to Innovate?
Whether for mobility, healthcare, textiles, or home comfort, our PTC ink portfolio opens new possibilities for safe, efficient, and customized heating.
Contact Tetrachim’s team today to discuss your project and discover the right Henkel PTC solution for your application!