Dylux

THE INVENTION OF DYLUX INSTANT-ACCESS IMAGING MATERIALS AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF HABI CHEMISTRY—A PERSONAL HISTORY... 

By 1970 we had learned enough about our materials and some new potentially attractive applications that Ryan and I were encouraged to make another movie. This time we were even able to hire a model to demonstrate our photosensitive papers and films. Just as we had begun to edit the film, the Dylux Venture was transferred to the research division of Photo Products Department, who had no desire to support this effort. 

In general, DuPont attached some descriptor to identify the trade name, and for Dylux it was to be instant-access imaging materials. By the year 2000 the name Dylux had become so identified with proofing products, that some paper base, manufactured for ink-jet proofing systems, was also given this trade name. 

In time the Brady Co. wanted to buy Dylux solutions and coat them on an adhesive-backed film. They had designed a small optical printer, which involved different fonts and logos produced by a photographic technique, through which one would expose the photosensitive-coated material with a flash of light. We sent them some samples, but warned Brady that the decision to sell such materials had not been made. DuPont was reluctant to sell the chemical mix to anyone for fear that they would compete with us and make their own, competitive, proof paper. 

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