OKI Printing Solutions, Niigata University to Develop Biodegradable Toner

OKI (News - Alert) Printing Solutions, a part of the OKI Data Corporation and Niigata University, reportedly have announced that they’re working together to develop and manufacture an eco (News - Alert)-friendly toner that uses biodegradable complex fine particles, originated from biomass resources.

 

Currently, most of the toner, the developer fluid powder particle used for electro photographic printing systems such as printers and copiers, is made from natural resources such as oil and fossil fuel. These components emit global warming gases such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when they are burned during recycling. While recycling, deinking printed paper consumes energy, and bleaching paper is not good for the environment.

 

The biodegradable toner that’s being developed by the two companies will primarily comprise of hydrophobic protein such as zein, polysaccharide, chitosan and cellulose. The toner particles will include colorant and charge control agent. OKI Printing Solutions plans to develop the toner prototype by 2009 and to market the product by 2010 for the global market.

 

Masato Tanaka of the department of chemistry and chemical engineering at Niigata University said that responding to the environment is a key principle, and when this biomass originated toner becomes available in the market, carbon dioxide that was emitted when disposed or recycled will become virtually zero.

 

Tanaka said that this toner will be made of biodegradable polymers so by utilizing secession effect of the toner, energy consumption will be significantly reduced when turning them into recycled paper.

 

Under the partnership, Niigata University will focus upon the development of fluid on toner to be used for electro photographic printing system, while OKI Printing Solutions will evaluate physical characteristics to be used as fluid powder particles on toner and the printed output.

 

Mikio Yamamoto, general manager of Image and Media Research Department at OKI Printing Solutions, said his company is dedicated to developing products and processes that are environmentally friendly and help maintain a sustainable future.

 

Yamamoto said that OKI Printing Solutions will continue to invest in technology to meet the growing environmental consciousness of its customers and the company is able to meet their needs into the future by offering innovative products and solutions that reduce climate impact at the same time.