News

Xerox develops paper-reusing printer technology

Tuesday 05 December, 2006

Xerox has developed an innovative new technology that could see a significant reduction in paper wastage in offices around the world.

In association with the Palo Alto Research Centre, Xerox Research Centre of Canada (XRCC) has developed multi-use paper with images that only last for a day, meaning it is perfect for those once-viewed printouts.

Whereas normally such printouts, including emails, web pages and reference materials, would just be thrown away after that one view, the new technology means that such papers, which accounts for two in five printouts according to Xerox, could be reused.

"Despite our reliance on computers to share and process information, there is still a strong dependence on the printed page for reading and absorbing content," said Paul Smith, manager of XRCC's new materials design and synthesis lab.

"Of course, we'd all like to use less paper, but we know from talking with customers that many people still prefer to work with information on paper. Self-erasing documents for short-term use offers the best of both worlds."

Xerox has now filed for patents for its new technology, which erases in 16-24 hours by absorbing certain wavelengths of light.

The new development follows Toshiba's introduction last month of a printer that erases ink from paper before reusing it. Using thermal paper, it heats the material up to make the printed image or text disappear.

More news articles...

Photo printing made easy by Kodak
UK paper recycling drops
Printer users in the dark about colour
HP: New cartridges contain 'optimal amount' of ink
Solution for printing emergencies

News Home