Mainthow explains like many of the synthetics on the market, durable traditional paper can also survive the elements. He says, "TruTech is more rigid, where a synthetic is usually more flimsy, which is not necessarily a derogatory quality, just different."
Arjobex (www.arjobex.com), a subsidiary of Arlo Wiggins, produces a printable synthetic called PolyArt that contains no chlorine or halogens, producing neither dioxine nor any other toxic by-products. The paper, though it can be used in traditional printing applications, also stands up to the test of water, weather and grease. According to the company, PolyArt satisfies flexography, lithography, gravure, rotary letterpress, screen, as well as variable systems such as thermal transfer, ion deposition, dot matrix and ink-jet printing. Its clay coating holds color without requiring special preparation, unlike many other synthetics. "Use litho inks (which have low mineral oil content) to control ink/water balance," instructs Arjobex. "You'll get the same printing result, with minimum damping and less ink film."