| 摘要 |
PURPOSE:To achieve image recording which enables transfer recording with continuous gradations, by providing on a base of microcapsule layer in which a leuco dye and porous microcapsules containing a leuco dye therein are dispersed in a binder. CONSTITUTION:A thermal transfer sheet comprises, on a base 2, a microcapsule layer 6 in which porous microcapsules 4 containing a leuco dye 5 therein and the leuco dye 5 are dispersed in a heat-fusible binder 3. A recording sheet is coated with a color developer 7 capable of a chemical reaction with the leuco dye to develop a color. When heat generating elements 11 of a thermal head are heated to temperatures T1, T2, T3 (T1<T2<T3) according to an image signal from a CRT or the like, the microcapsule layer 6 of the thermal transfer sheet 1 is melted accordingly, whereby the quantity of permeation of the leuco dye 5 contained in the microcapsules 4 is controlled, the leuco dye 5 is transferred onto the recording sheet 8 under the control, and reacts with the color developer 7, resulting in color development. Therefore, development of the color of the dye occurs on the recording sheet 8 according to the quantities of thermal energy supplied by the heat generating elements 11, and a high- quality transferred image with continuous gradations is recorded. |
