Patent ID: 6165698
Filing Date: 2000-12-26
Classification: B41M,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for forming an image having a protective layer thereon employing an image forming element comprising a first support having thereon a colorant layer with a thickness of t.sub.1, the colorant layer comprising a colorant and a binder; and a protective layer transferring foil comprising a second support having thereon a thermally transferable layer, the thermally transferable layer having a thickness of t.sub.2 and being formed by coating the second support with a coating liquid and thereafter drying the coating liquid, the coating liquid comprising a thermoplastic resin emulsion dispersed in a dispersing medium;wherein the method comprises steps offorming an image in the colorant layer by imagewise exposing the colorant layer to light, andproviding a protective layer on the colorant layer having the image by transferring a thermally transferable layer from a protective layer transferring foil by means of heating the protective layer transferring foil,wherein the t.sub.1 and t.sub.2 satisfy a relation of t.sub.2 >2.times.t.sub.1.