Abstract
Fine aqueous mists are applied to the development of electrostatic latent image. The mist development needs no fixing.
Mists generated by ultrasonic wave were used to develop latent images on ZnO sensor or polyester film, and mist image properties were analyzed. The image density quickly saturated on ZnO sensor probably due to the image charge leakage during development. The density was also dependent on the surface tension of the mist since the mist aggregated on a poorly wettable surface. The image density D on polyester film is proportional to both the surface potential and developing time, but independent of the thickness in range 25-250 μm. The developing velocity dD/dt with charged mist was twice as fast as with uncharged mist.
Considering the various experimental facts, mist development may be characterized by the following two features; a relatively large developing velocity and a capability of developing a low charge density image, which may be attributed to the small charge amount on individual mist droplet and to the low viscous drag of carrier (air).
