Surface Characteristics and Print Quality of Inkjet-grade Papers

Features of inkjet grade paper products were analyzed by dynamic scanning absorptometry, image analysis of inkjet dots, and scanning electron microscopy of paper surfaces. Inkjet grade papers showed much faster water absorption by short-time contacts with the surface than non-inkjet grade papers, while showing wide varieties in the absorption curve pattern. The shape of inkjet dots also varied widely for different products. While the dot size was not correlated with water absorption speed, the shape factor was negatively correlated with the latter; i. e. faster absorption means better circularity of dots. The gloss-finished papers showed more irregular shapes than the mat-finished papers. This difference is considered to result from the presence of cracks in the former, which is formed by calendaring as visualized by electron microscopy.