Characterising the effect of binder migration on ink penetration using reconstructed images by atom force microscopy and laser scanning confocal microscopy

AbstractThe objective of this experiment was to investigate the relationship between binder migration and ink penetration using atom force microscopy and laser scanning confocal microscopy. The different drying temperature was used to change binder migration. Binder migration was observed using atom force microscopy. Fluorescent ink was used to observe and characterise ink penetration and distribution by laser scanning confocal microscopy. Reconstructed images were used to describe ink penetration in the coated paper by laser scanning confocal microscopy. The results implied that it was reliable and effective using laser scanning confocal microscopy to characterise ink penetration depth and distribution uniformity. This method could not damage the specimen, and did not need fluorescent dye to stain the specimen. The results indicated that binder migration affected ink penetration depth and distribution evenness. More binder migration to the paper surface could not contribute to ink penetration and even in...