Precision etching and the reproduction of full-tone photographs using the etch-tracks from fission fragments and alpha rays

Abstract

The emission of densely ionizing radiation, such as fission fragments or alpha particles, from photographic images toned with radioisotopes permits reproduction of the photograph in the form of a radiation damage pattern in most surfaces with which the photograph is placed in close contact. In many materials, subsequent etching of this damage pattern may cause the photograph to be reproduced in the form of a series of visible etch pits. These etch pits bear a close positional relationship to silver grains in the original photograph and permit its reproduction with high fidelity on many surfaces which are not normally photo-receptive. Since ink transfer from the etched areas to paper etc. is possible, the process may find application in the printing industry as well as in the production of useful and decorative etchings.