Method and apparatus for controlling gloss for toner images

摘要

This invention provides a method and an apparatus of imparting various gloss levels to toner images. The method comprises the steps of: fixing toner to a receiver in a fixing system, wherein said fixed toner possesses residual stress; and post-treating said fixed toner to at least partially relax said residual stress of said fixed toner. This invention also provides a fixing apparatus comprising: a fixing system for fixing toner to a receiver wherein said fixed toner possesses residual stress; and a post-treatment element capable of at least partially relaxing said residual stress of said fixed toner.