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Xerography

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Also Known AsElectrophotography, dry photography, laser printing process, photocopying

What is Xerography?

A dry photocopying technique based on the electrostatic attraction of charged toner particles to a photoconductor surface that has been selectively discharged by light. The toner image is then transferred to paper and fused with heat. The process uses selenium or organic photoconductors.

Properties & Characteristics

Xerography is an electrostatic printing process in which a latent image is created on a photoconductive surface by selective discharge using light, then developed with charged toner particles, and finally transferred and fused to paper. The photoconductive drum is charged uniformly then discharged where light (from the scanned original or laser) strikes it. Toner particles adhere to the charged regions and are then transferred to paper and fused by heat.

Uses & Applications

Xerography is the operating principle of photocopiers and laser printers used ubiquitously in offices. Laser printers produce high-resolution documents using the xerographic process. The technology is also used in certain industrial printing and direct imaging applications.

Safety Information

Laser printers and copiers produce small amounts of ozone from corona discharge, which can cause respiratory irritation in poorly ventilated areas. Fine toner particles can be an inhalation hazard. Proper ventilation is recommended for high-volume printing environments.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Xerography
Synonyms Electrophotography, dry photography, laser printing process, photocopying

Frequently Asked Questions

A dry photocopying technique based on the electrostatic attraction of charged toner particles to a photoconductor surface that has been selectively discharged by light. The toner image is then transferred to paper and fused with heat. The process uses selenium or organic photoconductors.

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