Abstract:
An image transfer medium for transferring an ink image onto a substrate is provided on its surface with a layer of particles that include an aggregation treatment agent capable of crashing out colorants, latex and/or resin in the liquid ink. The particles can include a surfactant or separate particles consisting essentially of a surfactant can be mixed with particles consisting essentially of the aggregation treatment agent.
Abstract:
An indirect printing apparatus is disclosed. The printing apparatus comprises an intermediate transfer member. A polyurethane based sacrificial coating is on the intermediate transfer member. The printing apparatus also comprises a coating mechanism for forming the sacrificial coating onto the intermediate transfer member and a drying station for drying the sacrificial coating. At least one ink jet nozzle is positioned proximate the intermediate transfer member and configured for jetting ink droplets onto the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. An ink processing station is configured to at least partially dry the ink on the sacrificial coating formed on the intermediate transfer member. The printing apparatus comprises a substrate transfer mechanism for moving a substrate into contact with the intermediate transfer member.
Abstract:
There is described a transfer member or blanket for use in aqueous ink jet printer. The transfer member includes a surface layer that includes a fluoropolymer and 3-aminopropyl trimethoxy silane wherein the 3-aminopropyl trimethoxy silane is present in an amount of from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent. A method of manufacturing the transfer member is described.
Abstract:
Described herein is a transfer member for use in aqueous ink jet printer. The transfer member includes an elastomeric material. The surface layer of the transfer member has been subjected to an energy treatment selected from the group including corona discharge, oxygen plasma discharge and electron beam discharge such that the surface layer possesses an aqueous ink contact angle of from about 25° to about 40°. The transfer member has a Shore A durometer of from about 20 to about 70. The ink jet printer is also described.