Abstract:
An ink composition comprising particles of polymer micelles containing a block copolymer in which micelles a functional substance consisting of a dye or a pigment is included and a solvent dispersing the particles therein, wherein the particles have a mean particle diameter of 200nm or below and a particle size distribution (dispersity index: mu/G2) of 0.1 or below; a process for forming images with the same; and image forming equipment. The polymer micelles are mainly made of an amphiphilic block polymer.
Abstract:
An ink composition comprising a solvent and particles having a solid coloring material substantially incorporated in a block polymer. It is preferred that the solid coloring material be incorporated in micelles constituted of the block polymer and that 90 wt.% or more of solid coloring material be incorporated in the block polymer. The average diameter of the particles is 200 nm or less. Further, there is provided a process for producing an ink composition, comprising providing such a condition that the coloring material in solution form and the block polymer are simultaneously dissolved and insolubilizing the coloring material and the block polymer therefrom so as to form particles. This ink composition is excellent in the dispersion of coloring material and is suitable for use as an ink composition for ink jet.