What was tested and what were the results of the testing?
Sublimated ChromaLuxe metal prints were tested under Wilhelm Imaging Research criteria using two different ink sets:
• Epson 4-Color UltraChrome DS Inks
• Sawgrass 8-Color Sublijet HD Pro Photo XF Sublimation Inks
What does the “display permanence” rating mean?
The rating is equal to the number of years before any noticeable fading and/or changes in color balance occur at a high level of light. Under WIR fade criteria, the naked eye may notice some fade at this time when compared to a newly printed print. Under normal lighting conditions, we expect ChromaLuxe metal prints to last more than 100 years.
What was the set criteria for testing?
Data was extrapolated to a display condition of 450 lux for 12 hours per day using the WIR “Visually Weighted Endpoint Criteria Set v3.0”.
When displayed, unframed prints made with the latest generation of ChromaLuxe aluminum photo panels have WIR Display Permanence Ratings that are more than THREE TIMES better than silver-halide prints (by Kodak) that have been framed under glass. Under identical testing parameters, Kodak Endura silver-halide prints framed under glass achieve a WIR Display Permanence Rating of 19 years.
No. This is one of the big advantages of ChromaLuxe. It is tough and durable so it does not need to be behind glass. The WIR tests show that placing it behind glass had virtually no effect on the results.
No, it is not. Diasecs are often made with photo papers, and under the same conditions, these will fade much faster, even when placed under acrylic. A face mounted acrylic will give a small improvement of about 25-30% meaning that ChromaLuxe remains approximately 2.3x better.
Same story as diasecs. If it is a photo paper it will reach the fade point much faster than ChromaLuxe. There are also many types of acrylic and many types of glue/adhesive which can have a negative effect on the print permanence. Most acrylic is also very easy to scratch or damage. Additionally, both acrylics and diasecs are very heavy compared to ChromaLuxe.
This is a totally different process and one that cannot achieve the high gloss and color saturation of ChromaLuxe. UV printing has a reduced color gamut and is designed for signage and not for high-end fine art prints.
Kodak has developed its own internal print permanence test methodologies and has used this for many years. Under this internal testing criteria, Kodak claims a life of 100 years before noticeable fade. It is important to understand the differences between WIR’s test methods and Kodak’s test methods. Under Kodak’s testing methods, it’s easy to see how they reached the 100-year mark. Keep in mind, under WIR testing, ChromaLuxe lasts 3x longer. The difference in test methodologies can be seen below:
- Kodak uses a test method of 120 lux for 12 hours per day
- WIR uses a test method of 450 lux for 12 hours per day
Henry Wilhelm’s testing methods have become the de facto standard used in the imaging industry. The Kodak testing methodology only applies to Kodak products and thus is not widely recognized.
Although fade is the most important aspect, the reports also show that ChromaLuxe is highly resistant to water, high humidity and ozone factors. These are additional features which make ChromaLuxe the perfect choice for high-end photographic needs.
