WO2016162753A1

WO2016162753A1 - Compositions, apparatus, methods, and substrates for making images and text

Info

Publication number: WO2016162753A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/000547
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dan Tonchev; Isam AZIZIYEH; Aref A. AL SALAH; Maysoon Fehmi JAMAL
Original assignee: Get Group Holdings Limited
Priority date: 2015-04-09
Filing date: 2016-04-07
Publication date: 2016-10-13

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention feature apparatus and methods for applying a formulation including one or more binders and one or more pigments to a substrate and fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to the substrate with photonic or thermal energy to form an image or text.

Description

COMPOSITIONS, APPARATUS, METHODS, AND SUBSTRATES FOR MAKING

IMAGES AND TEXT

Cross-Reference To Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 62/145,196, filed April 9, 2015, entitled "Laser Color Printing/Engraving Apparatus And Methods," the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Statement Regarding Federal Support

Embodiments of the present disclosure were not conceived nor reduced to practice with Federal funding or sponsorship.

Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to compositions, apparatus, methods and substrates for making images and text. Substrates bearing images and text in accordance with the present disclosure have utility as secure or personalized documents in the nature of passports, identification cards, credit or banking cards and the like.

Background of the Invention

Previous apparatus and methods for document personalization have been inefficient in the sense that most processes subtract or ablate pigments from the surface of a substrate. These process may not provide images or text of a desired quality.

There is a need to improve speed, quality and improve efficiency in the making of such secure documents. However, the speed and efficiency of the printing of such documents has been limited by the subtractive nature of the process.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods and apparatus for printing secure documents in the nature of driver's licenses, passports and other identification documents. Such documents typically have special printing steps which encode visual cues to enable individuals reviewing such to ascertain whether the document is authentic. For example, without limitation, the printing may provide a special background or foreground. The background or foreground may alternatively, or additionally, appear at certain angles of viewing.

These special optical and/or physical features are combined with electronic features and biographical information. All such features, which create uniqueness in a document, are referred to herein as "document personalization".

Summary of the Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to methods, apparatus, compositions and substrates which can effect printing of a secure document faster and more efficiently. One embodiment of the present disclosure is directed to an apparatus for placing an image or text on a substrate. The apparatus includes a means for applying a formulation to a substrate, said formulation including one or more binders and one or more pigments. The substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light and different from the substrate. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products.

In an embodiment of the apparatus, the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC),

polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In further embodiments of the apparatus, the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS),

polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU). In further embodiments of the apparatus, the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols. In other embodiments, the alcohols are selected from the group of C₁-C3 alcohols. In an additional embodiment of the apparatus, the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group that includes, but is not limited to, ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, T1O₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

The apparatus further includes means for fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to the substrate with photonic or thermal energy or both at once to form an image or text. As used herein, the term "substrate" refers to an article, card, surface, or document on which an image or text is received. Non-limiting embodiments of the substrates may include plastic forms, special books or booklets and papers. The work substrates can include different materials and sizes. For example, without limitation, the substrate may include a shape or form of a plastic card commonly used for identification purposes, credit cards and the like, and paper and pages used in secure documents such as passports and other similar documentation. These substrates may be specialized in the sense that the substrate bears or has one or more security features. For example, the substrate may incorporate materials (e.g., inks, pigments) that have features which produce optical effects or images and combination of both. Embodiments of the present disclosure allow these selected individual features to be marks of authenticity without compromising the high resolution, color image printing/engraving quality of final security documents.

One embodiment of the apparatus further includes a computer element. The computer element computer is in communication with the means for fusing to produce an image or text. That is, the computer element translates or processes images or text into pixels and directs the means for fusing to fuse pigment and binder in a plurality of locations which conform with the image or text. Thus, the image or text is a plurality of pixels on the computer screen and each pixel of the image or text is printed as a dot occupying a location on the substrate. For example, without limitation, embodiments of pixels/dots may include sizes selected from the range of Ιμπι - 10 μπι to 80 μπι - 120 μπι, alternatively, pixel/dot embodiments may exhibit a spacing selected from the range of 1 μπι - 4 μπι to 40 μπι - 120 μπι. In further embodiments, the pixel/dot size is selected from the range of 20 μπι - 40 μπι to 40 μπι - 60 μπι and the pixel/dot spacing is selected within the range from 5 μπι - 20 μπι to 20 μπι - 40 μπι. In other embodiments, additional features may be represented on the substrate in non-pixel or vector formats.

Each pixel/dot includes at least one pigment and binder, unless the pixel/dot is formed by carbonization of the surface of the substrate. One embodiment features a plurality of pigments to effect a range of colors. The process is additive to the substrate, with the exception of the formation of pixels/dots by carbonization of the substrate surface. In certain embodiments, the pixels/dots present a raised texture above the surface of the substrate or an ablated texture below the surface of the substrate, which in itself provides a means for identifying the authenticity of documents prepared by the present process.

One embodiment features means for applying a pigment and binder that applies a pigment for a first color. The means for applying dry formulations may include, by way of example, without limitation, one or more of dusting of the pigment and binder to the substrate, electrostatic deposition of the pigment and binder to the substrate, and pressure- assisted deposition techniques such as spray coating.

Another embodiment features means for removal of unfused pigment and binder after fusing. The means for removal may include, by way of example, without limitation, one or more of brushing, vacuum removal, sweeping, and the like. The removed pigment and binder is thus available to be reapplied to the substrate or a different substrate.

One embodiment features means for applying a pigment and binder which applies the first portion of the pigment and binder that is fused to the substrate and the unfused remainder is removed from the substrate and subsequently applies a second pigment and binder. The second pigment is for a second color. Although referred herein as a second pigment, the reference applies to all subsequent pigments. It is common to work with four pigments, cyan (C), yellow (Y), magenta (M), and black (K), to effect a substantially full range of colors perceptible to the human eye.

One embodiment of the present apparatus includes means for making one or more pixels/dots which includes a carbonized area of the substrate in lieu of, or in combination with, a black pigment. The means to produce such carbonized area includes lasers. Such lasers may be adjusted to output light suitable for fusing pigments and binders as well as carbonization of the surface of the substrate.

One embodiment of the present apparatus features a first pigment for a first color and a second pigment for a second color and means for applying the first pigment and the second pigment concurrently. The fusing means is capable of fusing the first pigment under a first set of fusing conditions and a second pigment under a second, different set of fusing conditions to create pixels/dots of different colors. For example, without limitation, where the fusing means is one or more lasers, a first laser applies one wavelength of light to fuse a first pigment and a second laser applies a second wavelength of light to fuse a second pigment. Or, in alternative embodiments, one laser may apply a first wavelength of light for a pixel/dot of a first pigment and be adjustable to apply a second, different wavelength of light that is applied to a second pixel/dot for a second pigment.

One embodiment features an apparatus or makes a substrate having impressions or hollows. The formulation is placed in one or more impressions on the surface of the substrate and at least a portion is fused thereto. One embodiment features a laser for making such impressions or hollows in the surface of the substrate. The formulations of the present disclosure may further include compounds or special application methods to effect further security features. For example, without limitation, the apparatus can fuse the pigments such that one or more selected pigments appear when viewed at certain angles and not at other angles. In further embodiments, the formulations may include one or more luminescent compounds (e.g., fluorescent and/or phosphorescent compounds) which can be identified under certain defined illumination or viewing conditions.

A further embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a method of placing an image or text on a substrate. The method includes the step of applying a formulation including one or more binders and one or more pigments to a substrate. The substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light and different from the substrate. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic- organic color products. The method further includes the step of fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to the substrate with photonic or thermal energy or both at once to form an image or text.

In an embodiment of the method, the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC),

polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In further embodiments of the method, the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS),

polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU). In further embodiments of the method, the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols. In other embodiments, the alcohols are selected from the group of C₁-C3 alcohols. In an additional embodiment of the method, the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group that includes, but is not limited to, ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, T1O₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

One embodiment of the method features the step of forming an image or text including one or more pixels/dots. The method includes controlling the means for fusing to fuse said one or more pigments in said one or more pixels/dots on the substrate to produce the image or text. One embodiment features means for fusing under the control of a computer element. The computer element processes the images and text to be placed on the substrate, where the images and text include one or more pixels/dots. The pixels/dots include one or more areas of substrate having a pigment set in a binder fused to a surface of the substrate.

The application of one or more pigments and binder is an additive process, except where one or more of the pixels/dots are formed by a carbonization. Pigments and binders which are not fused to the substrate in the fusion step, sometimes referred to herein as unfused pigment and binders, can be removed from the substrate and recycled. For example, embodiments of the method of the present disclosure include the step of applying a first pigment for a first color, where a first portion of the pigment and binder undergoes a fusion step to form fused pigment and binder and a second portion of the pigment and binder are unfused. The unfused binder and pigment is removed from the substrate. A further embodiment of the method includes the step of applying a second pigment and binder. The second pigment is for a second color, different than the first color. The second pigment and binder is subjected to a further fusion step to form fused second pigment and binder and unfused second pigment and binder.

A further embodiment of the method includes a step where one or more pixels/dots include a carbonized area of the substrate. One embodiment of the present method includes the application of a first pigment and second, different pigment concurrently for a first color and a second color, respectively. The method includes the step of the fusing means fusing a first pigment under a first set of fusing conditions and a second pigment under a second, different set of fusing conditions. For example, without limitation, when the fusing means is one or more lasers, the one or more lasers applies a first wavelength of energy to fuse a first pigment and a second wavelength to fuse a second pigment. Or, in alternative embodiments, one laser may apply a first wavelength of light for a pixel/dot of a first pigment and be adjustable to apply a second, different wavelength of light that is applied to a second pixel/dot for a second pigment.

One embodiment of the present method features a substrate having one or more impressions to receive a pigment and binder. The impressions may be pre-formed in the substrate or made by lasers. The one or more pigments and binders is fused in the impressions to form one or more pixels/dots.

The formulations of embodiments of the present method further include additional ingredients and compositions to place personalized features on the substrate. For example, without limitation, one method features a formulation including a luminescent compound (e.g., a fluorescent and/or phosphorescent compound), which can be used with a pigment or without a pigment. One or more pixel s/dots include a luminescent compound to impart a security identification feature. In further embodiments of the method, the pigments may be fused to the substrate such that one or more selected pigments appear when viewed at certain angles and not at other angles. A further aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure is directed to a formulation for placing an image or text on a substrate. The formulation includes one or more binders and one or more pigments. The one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products.

In an embodiment of the formulation, the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), polyurethanes (PU). In further embodiments of the formulation, the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols. In other embodiments, the alcohols are selected from the group of C₁-C3 alcohols. In an additional embodiment of the formulation, the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, T1O₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, quinacridone.

One formulation has a binder present in a range of 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%. One formulation of has pigment present in a range of 1 wt.% to 40 wt.%.

A further aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure is a substrate for receiving an image or text. The substrate is constructed and arranged to cooperate with an apparatus for placing the text or image on the surface. For example one substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. In certain embodiments, the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The substrate has surface characteristics including at least one of a glass transition temperature between 75°C and 150°C and a melting point between 100°C and 270°C, depending upon the molecular weight, the upper surface layer, and the blend ratio of the substrate composition. One embodiment of the substrate has preformed indentations for receiving pigment and binder formulations. In further embodiments, one such substrate has pre-formed indentations in pixel/dot locations.

A further aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure is directed to a substrate bearing an image or text. The substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. In certain embodiments, the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), and polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and

polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The substrate surface bears one or more pigments having a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic- organic color products. In further embodiments, the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols. In other embodiments, the alcohols are selected from the group of C1-C3 alcohols. In certain embodiments, the substrate surface bears one or more pigments including, but not limited to, ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, Ti0₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, quinacridone and similar. The one or more pigments are fused to the substrate with one or more binders. The one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light and different from the substrate. In certain embodiments, the one or more binders is selected from the group consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU).

The image or text includes one or more pixels/dots formed of the fused pigments and binders. The binders and pigments form a mass having a depth extending up to 0.9 mm from the surface mean and/or an elevation extending up to 0.6 mm above the surface mean. The pixels/dots may also include a carbonized area of the substrate. One embodiment of the present disclosure is a substrate constructed and arranged in the form of a personalized document. One such personalized document has a luminescent compound (e.g., a fluorescent or luminescent compound) in one or more pixels/dots. These and other features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon viewing the drawings which are described briefly following section and studying the detailed description below.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is an apparatus for printing secure documents in the nature of driver's licenses, passports and other identification documents;

Figure 2 is a schematic, cross-sectional illustration of an embodiment of a substrate;

Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a first method the present disclosure; Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a second method of the present disclosure; and

Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of a third method of the present disclosure

Detailed Description of the Invention Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with respect to preferred embodiments and best mode with regard to a security document in the form of a card. However, this description is not intended to be limiting and those skilled in the art will recognize the utility of the present invention to make and present images and text in a variety of mediums and for a variety of purposes. For example, without limitation, embodiments of the present invention have utility to make special labels or for presenting text and images of any article.

Turning now to Figure 1, an apparatus for printing secure documents in the nature of driver's licenses, passports and other identification documents, generally designated by numeral 11, is depicted. Apparatus 11 has the following major elements: a substrate holder 13 holding a substrate 15, a means for fusing, such as a laser 17a or a thermal device 17b, for fusing a color formulation to the substrate 15, a means for applying formulation, of which three are depicted 21a, 21b and 21c, a removal element 23, and a computer element 27.

Apparatus 11 is used to place text or images on substrate 15. Substrate 15 is constructed and arranged in the shape and form of a photo identification card. However, substrate 15 may comprise any article for which an image or text may be placed. With respect to photo identification cards, ssuch typically have special printing steps which encode visual cues to enable individuals reviewing such to ascertain whether the document is authentic. For example, without limitation, the cards may provide a special background or foreground. The background or foreground may appear at certain angles of viewing. These special optical and/or physical features are combined with electronic features and

biographical information. The substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light. In certain embodiments, the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and

polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In further embodiments, the substrate may be a

commercially available, multi-layered product such as DURA 10 and DURA 7™ (ABNote USA, Inc., Boston, MA) multilayered PC and PC/PVC blends, HID™, 3M™ Polycarbonate Security Film, or similar.

The apparatus 11 has means for applying a formulation 21a, 21b, and 21c. The means for applying a formulation 21a, 21b, and 21c is constructed and arranged in accordance with the nature of the formulation. The formulation may be in the nature of a powder, aerosol, foam, liquid, solution, slurry or suspension. The means comprise conduits [not shown] or, as depicted, containers which have openings [not shown] which deposit, spray, pour or otherwise place the formulation, represented by arrows, onto the substrate 15. The containers 21a, 21b, and 21c are drawn over the substrate 15 and/or the substrate 15 moved under the containers 21a, 21b, and 21c on moving tracks or runners [not shown] to deposit the formulation on the surface of the substrate 15.

In further embodiments, the apparatus 11 may additionally include means for attracting the formulation in contact with the substrate 15 prior to fusing. In an embodiment, the formulation may be urged onto substrate 15 through the use of electrostatic forces by a corona discharge. The substrate 15 may optionally have indentations premade or made through laser treatment with laser 17a to retain formulations.

In further embodiments, should these electrostatic forces alone be insufficient to maintain the formulation in contact with the substrate, other physical mechanisms may be employed, alone or in combination with electrostatic forces. For example, a transparent glass sheet [not shown] may be placed upon the surface of the substrate 15 after the formulation is deposited and prior to fusing of the pigment to the substrate 15.

The formulation comprises one or more binders and one or more pigments. In certain embodiments, the binders are dissolved in a solvent and deposited as a film on the surface of the pigment particles. The size of the pigment particles may be selected from the range of 1 μπι - 500 μπι. For example, the pigment size lower bound may be selected from the range of 1 μπι -45 μπι (e.g., 1 μπι, 5 μπι, 10 μπι, 20 μπι, 30 μπι, 45 μπι) and the pigment size upper bound may be selected within the range from 15 μπι - 500 μπι (e.g., 15 μπι, 25 μπι, 35 μπι, 40 μιη, 50 μιη, 60 μιη, 100 μιη, 125 μιη, 180 μιη, 200 μιη, 300 μιη, 400 μιη, 500 μιη). In liquid and liquid aerosol formulations, the pigment particle size may be selected from the range of 50 nm - 5 μπι.

The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light and different from the substrate. In an embodiment, the binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU). Such binders may possess a single or double molecular weight distribution.

Embodiments of the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic, heat resistive color products. In further embodiments, the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols. In other embodiments, the alcohols are selected from the group of C 1-C3 alcohols. Examples of such pigments may include, but are not limited to, ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, Ti0₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, quinacridone and similar. Further embodiments of the one or more pigments may include any pigments disclosed in the following, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

• Sales Range Brochure, "For the printing ink, paints, plastics industries and special applications" - Clariant (http://www.clariant.com/pigments). Specific embodiments may include, but are not limited to:

• Pigment Yellow 16 - Graphtol™ Yellow GG

• Pigment Yellow 74 - Hansa™ Brilliant Yellow 5GX

• Pigment Yellow 97 - Novoperm™ Yellow FGL

• Pigment Yellow 139 - Graphtol™ Yellow H2R • Pigment Yellow 180 - PV Fast^1M Yellow HG

• Pigment Orange 34 - Permanent Orange RL 01

• Pigment Red 146 - Permanent Carmine FBB 02

• Pigment Red 184 - Permanent Rubine F6B

• Pigment Blue 15 : 3 - Hostaperm™ Blue B2G

• Pigment Blue 15:3 - PV Fast™ Blue BG

• Pigment Violet 23 - Hostaperm™ Violet RL Spec

• Pigment Green 7 - PV Fast™ Green GNX

• Merck™ Effect Pigments Information

In further embodiments, the formulation comprises one or more additives. Examples of such additives include plasticizers, stabilizers, surfactants, suspending agents, foaming agents, and carrier liquids to promote accommodation of the one or more pigments within the formulation. Examples of plasticizers include butadiene-based plasticizers, dibutylphthalate, glycols and similar. Examples of stabilizers include CaCl₂, BaCl₂, CaC0₃ and others.

Examples of surfactants include dodecylbenzene sulfonic acids and salts. Examples of suspending agents include cellulose ethers, methylcellulose and similar. Examples of foaming and antifoaming agents include hydrocarbon emulsions, Zn stearate and similar. Examples of carrier liquids include distilled and deionized water and water/alcohol mixtures.

As depicted, the apparatus 11 has a means for applying a formulation 21a, 21b and 21c in the form of containers. Each container 21a, 21b and 21c holds a formulation for a particular pigment. It is common to use pigments for cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y). To form a substantially complete spectrum of colors visible to the human eye, a black color (K) is further utilized. Such black color may be provided in formulation maintained a fourth container [not shown] and/or achieved by carbonization of the substrate 15. However, in alternative embodiments, all pigments can be combined into a single container [not shown] and the laser 17a can be tuned to fuse different pigments, as will be described later.

The apparatus 11 has means for fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to the substrate with photonic or thermal energy or both at once to form an image or text. The image or text is formed of a plurality of pixel s/dots, where each pixel/dot has a defined color value (CMYK) and scale. The means for fusing comprises one or more lasers, represented by numeral 17a and/or one or more thermal devices represented by thermal device 17b (e.g., a fuser drum 17b. The apparatus may use one or more lasers, such as laser 17a, one or more thermal devices, such as thermal device 17b, or a combination of both lasers 17a and thermal devices 17b. In one embodiment, the laser 17a is used in an application step rather than a fusing step as will be discussed later. The laser 17a is also used to produce pixels/dots without formulations through carbonization of the substrate 15.

The laser 17a produces light having a wavelength selected from the range of 800 nm to 2000 nm, e.g., 800 nm to 1200 nm. In further embodiments, the lasers may be compliant with laser safety class 1 through class 4. For example, embodiments of the laser 17a may include laser diode arrays operating at 830 nm, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) and vanadate lasers operating at 1064 nm, fiber lasers operating at 1070 nm, green lasers operating at 512 nm, and ultraviolet (UV) lasers operating at 355 nm, where the UV laser is employed for cold, non-thermal marking. Embodiments of the lasers may operate in pulsed and continuous wave (CW)-quasi continuously.

In continuous wave operation, embodiments of the laser may operate using the following parameters. Average laser power may be selected within the range between 0.1 W to 50 W. The duration of laser pulses may be selected within the range between 1 ns to 100 ms.

In pulsed operation, embodiments of the laser may operate using the following parameters. Peak laser power may be selected within the range between 0.5 kW to 2 MW. Laser power density may be selected within the range between 0.5 MW/mm to 1 GW/mm. Laser pulse density may be selected within the range between 1 μΐ to 1 mJ. Laser pulse frequency may be selected within the range between 10 kHz to 100 MHz. Laser light step size (distance between pixels/dots) from -20 μπι (overlapping) to 120 μπι. Number of laser pulses per fusion location may be selected between 1 to 20. Embodiments of the lasers may further employ a number of passes selected between 1 to 5 to achieve proper fusion of pigments to the substrate 15.

The apparatus 11 may also include focusing components [not shown], known in the art, suitable for positioning and focusing the fusing means 17a and 17b. Examples may include, but are not limited to, scanners, F-theta lenses (e.g., 103 mm, 163 mm), beam expanders, laser beam vision devices, and the like.

The apparatus 11 further includes a computer element 27. The computer element 27 is in the nature of a computer processing unit (CPU) and supporting structures integrated into the housing and structures supporting the other elements of the apparatus or standing external. Examples of a computer element 23 include, without limitation, personal computers, mainframe computers and servers, integrated computers. The computer element 27 is in signal communication with the means for fusing means 17a and/or 17b to produce an image or text. As used herein, the term "signal communication" refers to being wired together, or wirelessly (through electromagnetic communication in the nature of WIFI or in communication through photonic transmission). The computer element translates or processes images or text into pixels/dots, such as a raster (bitmap) format, and directs the means for fusing 17a to create indentations to receive pigment formulation or to fuse pigment and binder which has been applied to the substrate 15 corresponding to and forming the pixels/dots in a plurality of locations which conform with the image or text.

Turning now to Figure 2, a substrate 15 is depicted in cross section. An indentation 3 la is present in the substrate 15 at the time substrate is loaded into apparatus 11, or is made by laser 17a under command of computer element 27. A similar indentation 3 lb depicts an indentation after receiving a formulation from application means 21a, 21b or 21c. Fusing the formulation by laser 17a or by thermal treatment by thermal drum 17b creates a pixel/dot 31c comprised of binder and pigment. For example, without limitation, a typical pixel/dot 31c may include a size selected from the range of Ιμπι - 10 μιη to 80 μιη - 120 μπι, Pixel/dot embodiments may exhibit a spacing selected from the range of 1 μιη - 4 μιη to 40 μιη - 120 μπι. In further embodiments, the pixel/dot size is selected from the range of 20 μιη -40 μιη to 40 μπι - 60 μπι and the pixel/dot spacing is selected within the range from 5 μιη - 20 μιη to 20 μπι - 40 μιη. In further embodiments, additional features may be represented on the substrate in non-pixel or vector formats.

Each pixel/dot includes at least one pigment and binder, unless the pixel/dot is formed by carbonization of the surface of the substrate. One embodiment features a plurality of pigments to effect a range of colors. The process is additive to the substrate, with the exception of the formation of pixels/dots by carbonization of the substrate surface. The pixels/dots present a raised texture above the surface of the substrate which in itself provides a means for identifying the authenticity of documents prepared by the present process. Returning now to Figure 1, removal means 23 removes pigment and binder that is not fused to the substrate 15. For example, means for applying a pigment and binder 21a, 21b and 21c applies a first pigment and binder for a first color, of which a portion of first pigment and binder is fused to the substrate 15 in the form of a pixel/dot 35 and a portion of first pigment and binder remains unfused. Removal means 23 removes from the substrate 15 the unused portion. Removal means 23 may take several forms, for example, without limitation, sweeps, brushes, vacuums, electrostatic devices (e.g., one or more charged plates), and blowers. As depicted, the removal means 23 is in the form of a vacuum device. The removed pigment and binder is thus available to be reapplied to the substrate 15 or a different substrate.

Means for applying a pigment and binder 21a, 21b and 21c may apply a first formulation having a first pigment, and a second formulation having a second pigment and a third formulation having a third pigment and other formulations sequentially. For example, without limitation, container 21a applies a first formulation having a first pigment and binder. First pigment and binder is fused to the substrate 15 in the location desired by computer element 27 with laser 17a creating pixel/dot 35. First pigment and binder that is not in the location of pixel/dot 35 is unfused. The unfused first pigment and binder on the surface of the substrate 15 is removed from the substrate 15 by the removal means 23. Next, a second pigment and binder. The second pigment is for a second color. Although referred herein as a second pigment, the reference, in this context, is not limited to two pigments, but applies to all subsequent pigments. It is common to work with four pigments, cyan (C), yellow (Y), magenta (M), and black (K), to effect a substantially full range of colors perceptible to the human eye.

As depicted in Figure 1, the means for applying a pigment comprises three containers 21a, 21b, and 21c. In the event three pigments are used, for example cyan, yellow and magenta, apparatus 11 includes means for making one or more pixels/dots which includes a carbonized area of the substrate in lieu of, or in combination with, a black pigment. The means to produce such carbonized area includes lasers such as laser 17a. Laser 17a is be adjusted to output light suitable for fusing pigments and binders or for carbonization of the surface of the substrate.

In the event a fourth pigment formulation is desired, apparatus 11 has a fourth container [not shown] in the nature of the three containers 21a, 21b and 21c depicted. In the alternative, apparatus 11 may apply a first pigment for a first color and a second pigment for a second color and other pigments concurrently. The means for applying the first pigment and the second pigment and other pigments concurrently, may comprise the separate containers depicted in Figure 1, containers 21a, 21b, and 21c which release the formulations as the substrate passes under, a single container [not shown] which contains all the pigments. In the event more than one pigment is applied to the substrate 15, the fusing means, such as laser 17a, is capable of fusing the first pigment under a first set of fusing conditions and a second pigment is fused by fusing means, such as laser 17a, under a second, different set of fusing conditions to create pixels/dots of different colors. Although a single laser 17a is depicted, apparatus 11 may comprise more than one laser [not shown] each laser capable of imposing different fusing conditions. For example, one laser may apply a first wavelength of light for a pixel/dot of a first pigment and be adjustable to apply a second, different wavelength of light that is applied to a second pixel/dot for a second pigment. Or, the second pigment formulation may be fused by a second laser operating at a second wavelength.

Apparatus 11 can make a substrate 15 having impressions or hollows. The formulation is placed in one or more impressions on the surface of the substrate 15 and at least a portion is fused thereto. For example, without limitation, laser 17a makes an impression in the substrate 15 and means for applying a formulation 21a places a first pigment and binder in the impression. The substrate 15 is cleared of first pigment and binder on its surface with the exception of the impression by removal means 23. The pigment and binder is fused to the substrate 15 by laser 17a or by thermal drum 17b. The laser 17a may also be used to soften the substrate to create one or more sticky locations or sticky impressions which serve to retain pigment and binder prior to fusing by further laser applications or by thermal drum 17b. Substrate 15 may have impressions premade for receiving a formulation. Only impressions processed by the laser 17a would retain pigment and binder and form a pixel/dot. Although three containers 21a, 21b, and 21c are depicted in Figure 1, apparatus may contain any number of containers and/or conduits to deliver formulations to the substrate 15. The formulations may compounds or be directed to special application methods to effect further security features. For example, without limitation, the apparatus 11 can fuse the pigments such that one or more selected pigments appear when viewed at certain angles and not at other angles. In further embodiments, the formulations may include one or more fluorescent compounds which can be identified under certain defined illumination or viewing conditions. Apparatus 11 is depicted in Figure 1 without a housing or cover for purposes of clarity. Those skilled in the art will recognize that apparatus 11 would further comprise an appropriate housing to support, contain and shield the components described.

The operation of apparatus 11 will now be described in the context of a method of placing an image or text on a substrate 15. Turning now to Figure 3, one method of the present invention is illustrated in schematic form. As used in Figures 3-5, the letter "Y" depicts a yellow pigment, the letter "C" represents a cyan pigment, the letter "M" represents a magenta pigment and the letter "K" represents a black pigment. The method includes the step of applying a formulation including one or more binders and one or more pigments to a substrate 15, in Roman Numeral I. The substrate 15 has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC),

polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU) and other similar, polymers transparent to visible light. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products.

The method further includes the step of fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to the substrate 15 with photonic or thermal energy to form an image or text as depicted in Roman Numeral II. As depicted, the apparatus 11 provides photonic energy with laser 17a. Roman Numeral III illustrates the fixed color image on the substratel5.

A further method is depicted in Figure 4. In Roman Numeral I, laser 17a prepares the surface of substrate 15 to soften and/or form a hollow or impression to receive a formulation of pigment and binder. The formulation is applied to the substrate 15 in Roman Numeral II. In Roman Numeral III, a formulation comprised of pigments and binders not fixed to the substrate in Roman Numeral II are cleared by removal means [not shown in this Figure]. In Roman Numeral IV, the pigment and binder of the fixed formulation are fused to the substrate 15 by thermal drum 17b forming a pixel/dot. Of course, the steps of this process are intended to form a plurality of pixels/dots and only one pixel/dot is described for the purposes of clarity. Turning now to Figure 5 depicts a further method of the present invention. Roman Numeral I depicts an application means 21a depositing one or more pigments and binders in a liquid or aerosol. The laser 17a is tuned to a wavelength to which the black pigment readily absorbs and is heated to fix to the substrate 15. Roman Numeral II depicts laser 17a tuned to a wavelength to which the cyan pigment readily absorbs and is heated to fix to the substrate 15. Roman Numeral III depicts laser 17a tuned to a wavelength to which the magenta pigment readily absorbs and is heated to fix to substrate 15. And, Roman Numeral IV depicts laser 17a tuned to a wavelength to which the yellow pigment readily absorbs and is heated to fix to the substrate 15. These fixed pigments are fused to the substrate by thermal devices, such as thermal drum 17b [not shown in this figure] and/or lasers such as laser 17a. The fused pigments form pixels/dots, which pixels/dots comprise one or more images or text.

One embodiment of the method features the step of forming an image or text including one or more pixel s/dots. The method includes controlling the means for fusing to fuse said one or more pigments in said one or more pixels/dots on the substrate to produce the image or text. One embodiment features means for fusing under the control of a computer element. The computer element processes the images and text to be placed on the substrate, where the images and text include one or more pixels/dots. The pixels/dots include one or more areas of substrate having a pigment set in a binder fused to a surface of the substrate.

The unfused binder and pigment is removed from the substrate. The unfused pigment and binder and be recycled for further use.

The method above may substitute a step fixing a black pigment and binder to substrate 15 by making one or more pixels/dots through a carbonization of a pixel/dot area of the substrate.

The method features a substrate 15 having one or more impressions to receive a pigment and binder. The impressions may be pre-formed in the substrate or made by lasers, such as laser 17a. The one or more pigments and binders is fused in the impressions to form one or more pixel s/dots.

The formulations of the present method further include additional ingredients and compositions to place personalized features on the substrate. For example, without limitation, one method features a formulation including a fluorescent compound, which can be used with a pigment or without a pigment. One or more pixels/dots include a fluorescent compound to impart a security identification feature. In further embodiments of the method, the pigments may be fused to the substrate such that one or more selected pigments appear when viewed at certain angles and not at other angles.

The finished substrate 15 bearing the image or text includes one or more pixels/dots formed of the fused pigments and binders. The binders and pigments form a mass having a depth extending 0.1 mm to 1 mm from the surface mean and an elevation extending 0.1 mm to 1 mm above the surface mean. The pixels/dots may also include a carbonized area of the substrate.

The features of the present method, apparatus, substrate, finished substrate and formulations are further exemplified in the following examples.

Example 1

This example features a substrate constructed and arranged in the size and form of a DL (Driving License) card. The substrate has a composition of polyvinylchloride (PVC). A layer of formulation comprising a pigment and binder is placed on the substrate. The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of ZnO, quinacridone, and a security additive. An image and text is selected in a computer program Symbol Writer Pro (RMI Laser, LLC, CO, USA) and the image and text is translated by the software into a pattern of pixels/dots. The computer is programmed to execute the pattern of pixels/dots on a laser U-1 at 1064 nm wavelength operating at Q-switched pulsed mode.

Upon execution, the laser fixes and fuses the pigment and binder of the formulation to the substrate and the laser system with a scanner and 163 mm F-theta lens tuned at step size 20, pulse repetition set on 2, laser operating at 40 kHz frequency and 100% power in one pass at fast raster option. The substrate has a well define image and text to the naked eye and under magnification of 5 to 10 times.

Example 2

This example features a substrate constructed and arranged in the size and form of an ID (Identification) card. The substrate has a composition of polycarbonate (PC). A layer of formulation comprising a pigment and binder is placed on the substrate. The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, and polyacrylics. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of Ti0₂, phthalocyanine, and a security additive. An image and text is selected in a computer program Symbol Writer Pro (RMI Laser, LLC, CO, USA) and the image and text is translated by the software into a pattern of pixels/dots. The computer is programmed to execute the pattern of pixels/dots on a fiber laser UF-20 at 1070 nm wavelength operating at Q-switched pulsed mode.

Upon execution, the laser fixes and fuses the pigment and binder of the formulation to the substrate and the laser system with a scanner and 163 mm F-Theta lens tuned at step size 14, pulse repetition 2, 30 kHz frequency at 80% power in one pass at fast raster option. The substrate has a well define image and text to the naked eye and under magnification of 5 to 20 times.

Example 3 This example features a substrate constructed and arranged in the size and form of a credit card. The substrate has a composition of fire resistive, filler modified cross linked polyethylene (PE). A layer of formulation comprising a pigment and binder is placed on the substrate. The binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polyacrylics mixture and polyurethanes. The one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group consisting of carbon black, and a security additive. An image and text is selected in a computer program Symbol Writer Pro (RMI Laser, LLC, CO, USA) and the image and text is translated by the software into a pattern of pixels/dots. The computer is programmed to execute the pattern of pixels/dots on a YAG laser U-l at 1064 nm wavelength operating at Q-switched pulsed mode. Upon execution, the laser fixes and fuses the pigment and binder of the formulation to the substrate and the laser system with a scanner and 163 mm F-theta lens tuned at step size 10, pulse repetition 2, 10 kHz frequency at 90% power in one pass at fast raster option. The substrate has a well define image and text to the naked eye and under magnification of 5 to 30 times. Thus, we have described what are considered the preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present description is capable of modification and alteration by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to the description above but should encompass the subject matter of the claims which follow and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for placing an image or text on a substrate comprising: a. means for applying a formulation to a substrate, said formulation comprising one or more binders and one or more pigments to a substrate, said substrate having a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, said one or more binders having a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, said one or more pigments having a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products; and b. means for fusing the one or more binders and one or more pigments to said substrate with photonic or thermal energy to form an image or text.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU).

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group of ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, Ti0₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the alcohols are selected from the group of C₁-C3 alcohols.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a computer element, said computer element controlling said means for fusing to produce an image or text.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said image or text is comprised of one or more pixels or dots.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein one or more pixels or dots comprise one or more areas of said substrate having a pigment set in a binder fused to a surface of said substrate.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said means for applying a pigment and binder applies a pigment for a first color to said substrate.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising means for removing unfused pigment and binder from said substrate.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said means for applying a pigment and binder applies a second pigment and binder said second pigment for a second color, different from said first color, to said substrate.

13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said one or more pixels comprise a carbonized area of the substrate.

14. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein said one or more pixels comprise a fluorescent

compound.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

said pigments and binders comprise a first pigment for a first color and a second pigment for a second color, said second color different than said first color;

said means for applying applies said first pigment and said second pigment concurrently; and

said fusing means fuses said first pigment under a first set of fusing conditions and said second pigment under a second set of fusing conditions different from said first set of fusing conditions.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein said fusing means is one or more lasers that applies a first wavelength of light to fuse said first pigment and a second, different wavelength of light to fuse said second pigment.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said formulation is placed in one or more impressions on the surface of said substrate.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said apparatus further comprises a means for forming said one or more impressions.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said means for forming said one or more impressions is a laser.

20. A method of placing an image or text on a substrate comprising the following steps: a. applying a formulation comprising one or more binders and one or more pigments to a substrate, said substrate having a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, said one or more binders having a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, and said one or more pigments having a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products; and b. fusing said one or more binders and one or more pigments to said substrate with photonic or thermal energy to form an image or text.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC),

polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU).

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the alcohols are selected from the group of C 1-C3 alcohols.

25. The method of Claim 20, wherein the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group of ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, T1O₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

26. The method of claim 20, further comprising the steps of:

obtaining an image or text comprising one or more pixels, and

controlling said means for fusing to fuse said one or more pigments in said one or more pixels to produce said image or text on said substrate.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein said image is formed in a computer element.

28. The method of claim 26, wherein one or more pixels comprise one or more areas of

substrate having a pigment set in a binder fused to a surface of said substrate.

29. The method of claim 26, wherein said application of one or more pigments and binder applies a first pigment for a first color.

30. The method of claim 29, further comprising the step of removing unfused pigment and binder.

31. The method of claim 26, wherein said step of applying a pigment and binder applies a second pigment for a second color, different than said first color.

32. The method of claim 26, wherein said one or more pixels/dots comprise a carbonized area of the substrate.

33. The method of claim 26, wherein said one or more pixels/dots comprise a luminescent compound.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein said luminescent compound is applied with one or more pigments.

35. The method of claim 28, wherein said pigments and binders comprise pigments for more than one color and said means for applying applies more than one pigment concurrently, said fusing means fusing a first pigment under a first set of fusing conditions and a second pigment under a second, different set of fusing conditions.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein said fusing means is one or more lasers that applies a first wavelength of light to fuse said first pigment and a second, different wavelength of light to fuse said second pigment.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein said substrate has one or more impressions to receive a pigment and binder.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein said impressions are made by lasers.

39. A formulation for placing an image or text on a substrate, comprising: one or more binders; and one or more pigments; said one or more binders having a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light; and said one or more pigments having a composition selected from the group consisting of inorganic and insoluble hybrid inorganic-organic color products.

40. The formulation of claim 39, wherein the one or more binders have a composition

selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU).

41. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols.

42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the alcohols are selected from the group of C 1-C3 alcohols.

43. The formulation of claim 39, wherein the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group of ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, Ti0₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

44. The formulation of claim 39, wherein said binder is present in a range of 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%.

45. The formulation of claim 39, wherein said pigment is present in a range of 1 wt.% to 40 wt.%.

46. A substrate for receiving an image or text said substrate having a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, and having a surface characteristics at least one of a glass transition temperature between 75°C and 150°C and a melting point between 100°C and 270°C.

47. The substrate of Claim 46, wherein the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

48. A substrate bearing an image or text, said substrate having a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light, said one or more pigments having a composition selected from the group consisting of insoluble inorganic and hybrid inorganic-organic color products, and one or more binders having a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers transparent to visible light.

49. The substrate of claim 48, wherein the substrate has a composition selected from the group of polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polycarbonates (PC), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethyleneterephalate (PET), modified polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamides (PA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

50. The substrate of claim 48, wherein the one or more binders have a composition selected from one or more polymers or mixtures of polymers consisting of polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polyacrylics (PA), and polyurethanes (PU).

51. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein the one or more pigments are insoluble in water and alcohols.

52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the alcohols are selected from the group of C 1-C3 alcohols.

53. The substrate of claim 48, wherein the one or more pigments have a composition selected from the group of ZnO, phthalocyanine, CdS, T1O₂, carbon black, Fe oxides, lithol, dinitroaniline, pyrazolol, and quinacridone.

54. The substrate of claim 48, wherein said image or text is fused to said substrate surface by one or more binders and pigments, wherein said binders and pigments form a mass having a depth extending up to 0.9 mm from the surface mean and an elevation extending up to 0.6 mm above the surface mean.

55. The substrate of claim 48, constructed and arranged in the form of a personalized

document.

56. The substrate of claim 48, wherein said image or text comprises one or more pixels.

57. The substrate of claim 48, wherein one or more pixels comprises a carbonized surface on said substrate.

58. The substrate of claim 48, further comprising a luminescent compound in one or more pixels.