Evidence for Thermally Induced Fade and Yellow Stain Formation in Inkjet Photographic Prints

Abstract

In our previous papers, we have shown how light, ozone, and humidity can affect the image stability of inkjet photographic prints. Previous attempts to measure the thermal dark fade of inkjet prints by the Arrhenius method have been confounded by dye migration. When tests are carried out at a constant, absolute humidity equivalent to 50% RH at 24°C (constant 13°C dew point), temperatures as high as 75°C can be utilized for many ink-media combinations without encountering significant dye migration. In this paper, we provide evidence for thermally induced changes to inkjet photographic prints, including fade, hue shift, and/or yellowing. Results will be discussed in the context of the Arrhenius relationship.