Patent attributes
A polyurethane-silica hybrid, or polyurethane-silica/silsesquioxane hybrid overcoat improves the life of the photoconductor drum without significantly altering the electrophotographic properties of the PC drum. Wear can be caused by a variety of factors, which include contact with the cleaner blade, paper, or intermediate transfer member or by erosion or scratching from toner components. The combination of hard and soft segments allows for a tough, wear resistant material with the added flexibility to prevent erosion from toner particles that are swept along the surface of the drum by the cleaner blade. A benzophenone ultraviolet absorber chemically linked to the silsesquioxane appears to inhibit room light fatigue and improve the electrostatic cycling of the PC drum. The overcoat also inhibits crazing.
