Instant colour photography: chemistry and UV stabilization

Abstract

An ultraviolet (UV) screening agent precursor, dinonylphenylisophthalate, applied as a component of a surface coating on instant colour positive photographic prints stabilizes the dyes that are used and prevents the fading of colour that otherwise occurs. It is believed that upon exposure to UV light the ester precursor rearrangesin situ to form substituted benzophenones, which are effective UV screening agents. Eastman Kodak instant colour prints protected by this system successfully resisted prolonged exposure to high intensity UV light. Under the same conditions, unprotected controls showed extensive fading and other changes in colour. Extension of the general technology to prevent colour fading of dyes in other applications is foreseen.