ATM receipts are produced using a simple printing method called thermal printing. It is based on the principle of thermochromism, a process in which color changes when heated.
Essentially, thermal printing involves using a print head to create an imprint on a special paper roll (commonly found in ATMs and vending machines) coated with organic dyes and waxes. The paper used is a special thermal paper impregnated with dye and a suitable carrier. When the printhead, composed of tiny, regularly spaced heating elements, receives a print signal, it raises the temperature to the melting point of the organic coating, creating printable indentations on the paper roll through a thermochromic process. Typically you’ll get a black printout, but you can also get a red printout by controlling the temperature of the printhead.
Even when stored at normal room temperature, these prints will fade over time. This is especially true when exposed to high temperatures, near candle flames, or when exposed to sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can generate large amounts of heat, well above the melting point of these coatings, which can cause permanent damage to the chemical composition of the coating, ultimately causing the print to fade or disappear.
For long-term preservation of prints, you can use original thermal paper with additional coatings. Thermal paper should be stored in a safe place and should not be rubbed on the surface as friction may scratch the coating, causing image damage and fading. .
Post time: Sep-20-2023