Evaluation of the quality of ink-jet printed paper by planar chromatography

Paper chromatography and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) are two efficient analytical methods that can be used to characterize interactions between the ink (dye) and the paper surface in ink-jet printing. Both methods enable determination of ink adhesion rate as a function of fiber composition, pigment type, amount of binder, and dye fixation agent, etc. Paper chromatography was used to investigate the influence of fiber type and dye fixative on ink adhesion rate (comparison of R F values) and the waterfastness of printing on uncoated papers. The results suggested that Canon printing ink is more suitable for use on papers containing predominantly bleached, wood-free, i.e. chemical, fibers whereas the HP ink proved more appropriate for papers made from mechanical pulp. Addition of as little as 1% (w/w) dye fixative significantly improved print waterfastness. TLC was especially useful for optimization of coating color recipes for papers intended for photo-quality prints. The best color results were achieved with coatings based on a 1:1 combination of precipitated calcium carbonate and silica.