Patent ID: 6555291
Filing Date: 2003-04-29
Classification: B41C,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for forming an image using a thermally imageable element, the method comprising the steps of:a) thermally imaging the thermally imageable element and producing exposed and unexposed regions in the thermally imageable element; and b) developing the thermally imageable element with an aqueous alkaline developer and removing the exposed regions; in which:the thermally imageable element comprises, in order: a top layer; an underlayer; and a hydrophilic substrate; the underlayer comprises a first polymeric material; the top layer comprises a second polymeric material; the second polymeric material comprises phenolic hydroxyl groups or substituted sulphonamide groups; the second polymeric material is removable by the aqueous alkaline developer; the top layer is free of materials that function as a solubility-suppressing component for the second polymeric material; the top layer is ink-receptive; and the aqueous alkaline developer has a pH of at least 7 to about 11.