| abstract |
A method of printing an ink or meltable ink layer which comprises dyes or pigments or other colorants. The ink or ink melt layer comprises compounds with functional groups capable of reacting with active hydrogen, and compounds with functional groups containing active hydrogen, or functional groups capable of conversion to active hydrogen containing groups. An image is printed onto a substrate, at a relatively low temperature, so that the ink is not activated during the process of printing on to the medium. The image is subsequently transferred or permanently fixed on the substrate by the application of heat and pressure, which activates the ink, and bonds the colorant to the substrate. The reactive compounds may be blocked with blocking agents which are removed by the application of heat or other energy during activation of the ink. |