Microporous paper for use in toner-based marking

We have developed a paper sheet that has a microporous surface layer that meets the demands for matte-type printing in toner-based marking. The microporous layer reduces the differential gloss (the difference between the maximum and minimum gloss) of the printed sheet. The toner particles which are transferred on to the surface of the sheet are easily embedded into the microporous layer during the fixing process by heat and pressure; and the microporous layer maintains its porosity even during the printing process, thereby reducing the gloss. The low differential gloss makes the printed images easier for observers to look at. In comparison, in the case of plain and pigment-coated paper, the areas that are covered with fused toner become smoother than the non-printed areas and hence the differential gloss is greater. We also show that the other print qualities of our microporous paper, in terms of line quality and uniformity, are higher than those observed for plain and pigment-coated paper. Thus, the microporous paper is better suited to matte-type printing in toner-based marking.