Multi-layer thermally transferable printing ribbons

摘要

Multi-layer thermally transferable printing ribbons and methods of making the same consisting of elongated backing elements having a subcoat layer requiring a relatively high level of thermal energy to transfer the subcoat layer and a topcoat layer which requires a lower level of thermal energy to transfer the topcoat layer. Accordingly, when printing using a lower level of thermal energy, only the topcoat layer will transfer onto the paper or other print receiving medium. On the other hand, if a relatively high level of thermal energy is used, both the topcoat layer and the subcoat layer will transfer onto the paper or other print receiving medium, with the subcoat layer remaining on top and blocking or obscuring the topcoat layer.