Screen Printing Forum

Can someone tell me what Sublimation is?

Related to chemistry is defined as "To cause (a solid or gas) to change state without becoming liquid." The sublimation process is used to imprint objects by applying dyes that turn from a solid to a gas when heated. In order for the process to succeed, the substrate needs to possess a high level of polyester, or have a polyester surface applied specifically to accept the sublimation ink when heated. To transfer the sublimated image from the paper carrier to the substrate, the paper is placed in contact with the substrate and heated to the appropriate temperature — in the range of 385°F to 425°F depending on the manufacturer's guidelines. When heated properly, the molecules of the polyester coating (or substrate) open up and accept the sublimation gas into the open pores — trapping the ink in the polyester molecules. As the polyester coating cools, it encapsulates the ink.

very concise. nice job man.

tom