Diasec
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Diasec is the registered trademark for the original method of face-mounting prints, such as photographs on acrylic sheets. The process was invented by Heinz Sovilla-Brulhart in 1969.
According to the trademark's website, the colors are "more brilliant and the image sharper than with standard glass in a picture frame" because of the light penetration and refraction of clear acrylic compared to normal glass.[1] A Diasec mount is usually of a high gloss finish. Because the print is glued to the acrylic glazing, the result is a completely flat mount of the image.
Diasec also contains (UV) light inhibitors to help protect the image from ultraviolet (UV) light.
The process bonds the print without air bubbles because it uses liquid gel instead of a transparent adhesive film.[2] The image is face-mounted and stuck to the acrylic glass with a special sealant. Normally, the mounted print is then placed on a carrier sheet. This is usually Aluminum. If the print has to be backlit, translucent materials such as acrylic can be used instead. The Diasec gel is neutral curing and has an inbuilt ultraviolet filter. It contains no plasticizers and is resistant to fungicidal, bacterial agents, and airborne pollutants. After curing, the whole airtight panel remains chemically inert and stable. The finished product remains flexible, enabling it to withstand changes in temperature and humidity, which affect works on paper. However, the process is irreversible and if the acrylic glass is damaged, there is no way to salvage the print.
Nowadays, new acrylic products can include anti-scratch surface coatings that prevent damage to these pieces of art.