| abstract |
The present invention provides a printing process and phase change ink with improved image properties including image adhesion to paper, image durability, fastness to mechanical stress, and surface gloss level. A crystallizable element that crystallizes as it cools from a first ink discharge temperature to a second lower temperature; an amorphous element comprising a material that remains amorphous at the second temperature; The crystallizable element and the amorphous element are in a molten single-phase state at a first ink discharge temperature, and at a second temperature, the phase-separated ink contains the optional colorant. A crystalline phase comprising a crystallizable element and an amorphous phase comprising an amorphous element, the amorphous phase penetrating a substantial amount into the substrate receiving the final image, and the crystalline phase comprising a significant amount of final Phase separation ink that remains on the surface of the substrate that receives the image. [Selection figure] None |