A dense transparent ink-jet receptive film that provides instantaneous print drying

Abstract

Ink-jet printing is an important image transfer technology. In this technology, the electronic capabilities are often constrained by shortcomings of materials functions. One of the constraints for fast reproduction of high-resolution photographic quality color images is the print dry time. This presents a challenge in the film technology where large quantities of solvent must be rapidly removed without transporting colorants outside the targeted areas. In this work, this is achieved by chemical immobilization of water by organic polymers incorporated into the film matrix. In this dense film, immobilization of large volumes of water becomes possible by a transient local swelling of the matrix—as much as 600–700%. This mechanism of water immobilization not only creates a virtually dry state instantaneously, but also leads to a tighter containment of colorants within the targeted areas, resulting in a significant improvement in edge acuity and image resolution. In addition, the film is printer and ink nonspecific and produces a high gloss on photographic paper.