The process of image transfer by the thermal coating of thermal transfer paper is a complex and delicate process combining chemical reactions and physical changes.
The thermal coating of thermal transfer paper is mainly composed of thermal materials, pigments or dyes, and adhesives. These components will undergo specific chemical and physical changes when heated, thereby realizing the transfer of images.
Thermosensitive materials are the key components in thermal transfer coatings, and they have specific thermal sensitivity. When subjected to heat pressure at a certain temperature, the thermal material will undergo a chemical reaction, release heat or change its physical state, thereby initiating the transfer of pigments or dyes.
During the thermal transfer process, the pigment or dye is firmly attached to the thermal coating. When the thermal transfer paper is closely attached to the substrate and heated by tools such as a heat press or iron, the pigment or dye in the thermal coating will soften or melt due to heat. At this time, the pigment or dye will be transferred to the substrate along the surface of the thermal coating under the action of the adhesive.
The adhesive plays a vital role in the thermal transfer process. It not only firmly attaches the pigment or dye to the thermal coating, but also provides the necessary adhesion during the heating process, so that the pigment or dye can be smoothly transferred to the substrate. At the same time, the adhesive ensures that the transferred image has good adhesion and durability on the substrate.
During the heating process, the contact area between the thermal transfer paper and the substrate is subjected to high temperature and pressure. This action not only softens or melts the pigment or dye in the thermal coating, but also causes slight physical changes on the surface of the substrate, such as swelling or softening. These changes help the pigment or dye to better penetrate into the fiber or surface structure of the substrate, thereby achieving a stronger adhesion.
After heating and pressurization, the thermal transfer paper and the substrate need to cool down for a period of time. During the cooling process, the pigment or dye transferred to the substrate will gradually solidify and tightly bond to the surface of the substrate. This process ensures the durability and stability of the image.
The thermal transfer paper's thermal coating achieves image transfer through specific chemical and physical change mechanisms.
