Abstract
An innovative media “PICTORICO” for ink-jet printers has been developed which enables users to create photo-realistic digital image. This was achieved by coating synthesized fine alumina particles on-a variety of substrates such as paper, film, fabric, cork, metal plate, etc. The alumina layer on a substrate has the following properties which are critical to achieve high resolution and durable image using ink-jet printers. (1) Quick ink absorption, (2) Perfectly round dot shape, (3) Transparent, (4) Supreme water resistance, To obtain these properties, carefully designed alumina particles are required. Maximum particle size and mean pore diameter are controlled to be less than 200 angstrom in order to get transparent ink receptive layer. This smallness of the pore does not sacrifice ink absorbing capability of the layer, because the particles are stik-like shape and highly oriented to the same direction. Perfect round dot shape attributes to small and uniform pore structure of the layer. The alumina particle has large surface area to disperse uniformly and capture firmly dyes in the ink, which realizes original deep color of the colorants and extraordinary durability against water. Even after imaging, the alumina layer does not lose surface gloss at all because of its strong waterfastness. These features above combined, it is possible to realize extremely high quality image with ink-jet printers.
