Abstract: A diazo dye is stabilized through reaction with a metallo-alkoxide compound of the formula: M-(OR)n wherein n is an integer from 2 to 6 inclusive; R in each occurrence is a C1-C6 hydrocarbon; and M is a transition metal, main group metal or silicon. The stabilized dye exhibits an inhibited migration in graphic arts applications and as a coloring agent.

Abstract: An ablatable, direct write imaging medium includes a polymeric matrix having a carbon pigment and an ultraviolet absorbing dye therein. The carbon pigment functions to absorb relatively long wavelengths of light to cause ablation of the medium. The ultraviolet absorbing dye gives the ablation-imaged medium high optical density in ultraviolet portions of the spectrum.

Abstract: A dry erase member for receiving and releasably retaining a marking composition comprises a substrate coated with a layer of dry erase material on a first face thereof. In specific embodiments, the dry erase coating includes a major amount of a fluorinated polymer or a cellulose acetate based polymer, together with a minor amount of a melamine resin. The dry erase member may include a layer of adhesive on a second face of the substrate to allow for temporary or permanent mounting of the dry erase member onto a surface. In specific embodiments, the dry erase member is flexible. Also disclosed is a dust retaining strip for use with dry erase boards.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a diazo dye which is the reaction product of a diazonium salt having the formula wherein R is hydrogen or an alkyl, Y is a halogen and X is an anion; with an aromatic coupling agent which is preferably of the formula wherein R is hydrogen or an alkyl and n is 0 or a positive integer. Also disclosed are methods for using the dye to form a phototool, including a method based upon a computer controlled ink jet printer.

Abstract: A direct write imaging film includes a first layer disposed on a substrate and a second layer atop the first layer. The first layer is capable of being dispersed or otherwise disrupted by a first wavelength of light so as to decrease the adhesion of the second layer to the remainder of the film. The second layer has a relatively strong absorption for a second wavelength of light which is shorter than the first wavelength. In the use of the film, light of the first wavelength is used to disrupt selected portions of the first layer; and then, overlying portions of the second layer are removed to produce an image which is strongly absorbing of the second wavelength, and is defined by the remaining portions of the second layer.

Abstract: A photo mask or other phototool is directly prepared by the imagewise illumination of an azo dye with a high intensity source of illumination so as to cause the removal of the dye from the imaging medium. Illumination is preferably carried out with a laser light source having an output at a wavelength of less than 530 nanometers and an energy density of at least 100 mj per centimeter squared. Disclosed are some specifically preferred azo dyes.