JP3323741B2 - Developer carrier and method of manufacturing developer carrier - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a developer carrier for developing a latent image formed on an electrostatic latent image holding member such as an electrophotographic photoreceptor or an electrostatic recording derivative and visualizing the latent image. It relates to the manufacturing method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a developing device that visualizes an electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of a photosensitive drum, for example, as an electrostatic latent image holding member, with toner of a one-component developer has been developed. Positive or negative charge is applied to the toner particles by friction between the toner particles and the developing sleeve serving as a developer carrier, and friction between the toner particles and a member that regulates the amount of toner applied on the developing sleeve. A very thin coating on the sleeve is carried to a developing area where the photosensitive drum and the developing sleeve are opposed to each other. In the developing area, the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum formed by various means flies and adheres to develop. If necessary, after transferring the toner image to a transfer material such as paper, fix by heating, pressure, heating and pressurizing, etc.
To obtain a copy, and the toner remaining on the photoreceptor without being transferred is cleaned by various methods, and the above steps are repeated.

A corona discharger has been widely used as a means for uniformly charging the surface of the electrostatic latent image holding member (photosensitive member) or for transferring a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive member. A method of directly charging / transferring a charging member directly to the body surface by applying a voltage from the outside while directly touching or pressing the charging member via a recording material has been researched, developed, and put into practical use.

For example, JP-A-63-149669 and JP-A-2-123385 have been proposed. These are related to a contact charging method and a contact transfer method, but a conductive elastic roller is brought into contact with the electrostatic latent image holding member,
The electrostatic latent image holding member was uniformly charged while applying a voltage to the conductive roller, and then a toner image was obtained by an exposure / development process, and then a voltage was applied to the electrostatic latent image holding member. The transfer material is passed through while another conductive elastic roller is being pressed, and the toner image on the electrostatic latent image holding member is transferred to the transfer material. Then, a copy image is obtained through a fixing process.

Such an apparatus adjusts the pressing force of a transfer roller against a latent image holding member by adjusting the pressing force of a transfer roller against a latent image holding member as compared with transfer means utilizing corona discharge which has been widely used in the past. The area of adsorption to the body can be enlarged. Furthermore, since the transfer material is positively supported at the transfer portion, there is little possibility of occurrence of synchronization failure due to the transfer material conveying means and transfer deviation due to loops and curls existing in the transfer material, and the transfer material accompanying the downsizing of the image forming apparatus. It is easy to respond to requests for shortening the transport path and reducing the diameter of the latent image holding member.

On the other hand, in an apparatus that performs transfer by contact, a transfer current is supplied from the contact portion, so that it is necessary to apply a certain pressure to the transfer device. When the contact pressure is applied, pressure is applied to the toner image on the latent image holding member, and aggregation tends to occur.

Further, when the surface of the latent image holding member is made of resin, adhesion occurs between the toner aggregate and the latent image holding member, and transfer to the transfer material is hindered.
A phenomenon in which a part having strong adhesion does not transfer at all and a toner image is lost easily occurs.

This phenomenon is particularly remarkable in a line portion of 0.1 to 2 mm. This is because edge development is performed in the line portion, a large amount of toner is applied, aggregation due to processing is likely to occur, and loss due to transfer is likely to occur. At this time, the formed toner image becomes a copy in which the image is formed only in the outline portion, and is called “missing during transfer”.

The "missing during transfer" is particularly remarkable in thick paper of 100 g / cm ² or more, an OHP film having a high degree of smoothness, and copying of the second side in double-sided copying. It is conceivable that thick paper and OHP films have a small effect on the transfer electric field due to the large thickness of the transfer material, and that the pressure is increased and the hollow sheet is easily evacuated.

It is considered that, when copying the second side during double-sided copying, if the toner passes through the fixing device during the formation of the fixed image on the first side, the adhesion between the toner and the transfer material is hindered during the transfer on the second side, so that hollowing out is likely to occur. .

As described above, in the case of the transfer device using the contact member, although there are many advantages such as miniaturization and low power consumption, the conditions for the transfer material are strict.

On the other hand, in an image forming apparatus having the contact charging and the contact transfer, a general developer containing a fluidity-imparting agent such as silica in toner particles comprising a colorant such as a binder resin and a magnetic material is used. When used, the remaining toner particles on the photoreceptor that could not be removed slightly in the cleaning process after transfer are fixed on both the roller and the photoreceptor by the charging roller and the transfer roller pressed against the photoreceptor, As the number of times of copying increases, the toner adheres and adheres more firmly and becomes worse as toner fusion, resulting in poor charging, poor cleaning, and poor transfer. For this reason, in the obtained image, there is a problem that the image density is likely to be reduced and uneven, a white spot pattern in a solid black image, and a black spot pattern in a solid white image are likely to occur.

As a method of removing residual toner after transfer on a photosensitive member, various methods such as the above-described blade method, fur brush method, and magnetic brush method are known. At present, it is impossible to completely remove the residual toner after transfer on the photoconductor.

Further, an organic photoreceptor (organic photoconductor) is generally used as a photoreceptor for use in a medium-speed machine in order to reduce the size and cost of a copying apparatus. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Sho 63-30850 proposes an organic photoreceptor containing a lubricant such as a fine powder of a fluororesin in its surface layer for the purpose of reducing the abrasion of the toner and preventing the deterioration of the charging characteristics. However, in the organic photoreceptor containing the lubricant, although the life of the photoreceptor itself is certainly prolonged, the dispersion of the lubricant in the binder resin such as polycarbonate constituting the surface layer is poor, so that the surface of the photoreceptor is poor. When the photoreceptor is used in an image forming apparatus having a contact charging and a contact transfer method, the developed toner enters the concave portions on the surface, and the cleaning property of the residual toner is remarkably reduced in the cleaning after the transfer. The phenomenon of toner fusion on the charging roller, the transfer roller, and the photoreceptor tends to be further deteriorated.

On the other hand, in a printer or a copier using electrophotography, as a developer carrier used for the development of the above-mentioned method, for example, a metal, an alloy thereof, or a compound thereof is molded into a cylindrical shape, and the surface thereof is formed. What has been processed by electrolysis, blasting, sanding or the like to have a predetermined surface roughness is used. However, in this case, the developer existing in the developer layer near the surface of the developer carrier in the developer layer formed on the surface of the developer carrier by the regulating member has a very high charge, and is reflected on the surface of the carrier by the mirror force. I was strongly attracted,
As a result, there is no chance of friction between the toner and the carrier, so that the developer cannot have a suitable charge. Under such circumstances, sufficient development and transfer are not performed, resulting in an image having many image density unevenness and character scattering.

In order to prevent the generation of a developer having such an excessive charge and the strong adhesion of the developer, a film in which a conductive substance such as carbon or graphite or a solid lubricant is dispersed in a resin is subjected to the above-mentioned development. A method of forming the agent on a carrier is proposed in JP-A-3-36570.

[0017]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a developer carrying member which solves the above-mentioned problems and a method for producing the same.

An object of the present invention is to provide a developer carrying member which does not cause fusing or filming on a latent image holding member and which is durable even if the developer is used for a long period of time, and a method for producing the same. It is in.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a developer carrying member which does not cause fusing or filming on a latent image holding member and which can stably control charging of the developer for a long period of time, and a method of manufacturing the same. is there.

An object of the present invention is to provide a developer carrying member capable of stably and suitably developing a developer for a long period without causing fusion or filming on a latent image holding member, and a method of manufacturing the same. is there.

[0021]

[0022]

[0023]

[0024]

[0025]

[0026]

[0027]

[0028]

[0029]

[0030]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a developer carrier for carrying a one-component developer for developing a latent image formed on a latent image carrier. After forming a conductive resin layer containing at least a binder resin, a conductive fine powder and a filler powder and having a pencil hardness of H or more in JIS K 5400 on a metal substrate,
The surface of the conductive resin layer is manufactured by polishing and smoothing the surface of the conductive resin layer using a belt-shaped abrasive material having abrasive particles of # 800 or more adhered to the surface in JIS R 6001. And a method for producing the same.

[0031]

It should be noted that the present invention also relates to a developer in which an abrasive is externally added to the developer and which also contains a colorant and / or a magnetic material carrying a liquid lubricant. The conductive resin layer contains at least a binder resin, a conductive fine powder and a filler powder, thereby preventing abrasion of the surface of the developer carrier caused by an abrasive externally added to the developer and charging the developer. Sex can be controlled.

[0033]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS First, a developer used in the present invention will be described.

The abrasive externally added to the developer of the present invention includes:
For example, calcium titanate powder, barium titanate powder, magnesium titanate powder, strontium titanate powder, cerium oxide powder, zirconium oxide powder, titanium oxide powder, aluminum oxide powder, boron carbide powder, silicon carbide powder, silicon oxide powder, diamond There are powders and the like, which may be used alone or as a mixture. Of these, strontium titanate powder and cerium oxide powder are particularly preferably used.

The amount of the abrasive is preferably 0.1 to 10.0 parts by mass, more preferably 0.2 to 5.0 parts by mass, based on 100 parts by mass of the toner particles.

As the liquid lubricant which is carried on the colorant and the magnetic material of the developer of the present invention and gives the releasing property and lubricity to the developer, synthetic lubricating oils, for example; dimethyl silicone, methyl phenyl silicone, various modified silicones Polyol esters such as pentaerythritol ester and trimethylol propane ester; Polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutene and poly (α-olefin); Polyglycols such as polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol; Tetradecyl silicate and tetraoctyl silicate Diesters such as di-2-ethylhexyl sebacate and di-2-ethylhexyl adipate; tricresyl phosphate, propylphenyl phosphate and the like. Phosphate esters; polychlorotrifluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, fluorinated hydrocarbons, such as polyfluoroethylene, polyphenyl ethers, alkyl naphthenes, and the like alkylaromatic. Among them, silicone and hydrogen fluoride are preferred from the viewpoint of heat stability and oxidation stability.

Examples of the silicone include reactive silicones such as amino-modified, epoxy-modified, carboxyl-modified, carbinol-modified, methacryl-modified, mercapto-modified, phenol-modified and heterofunctional group-modified; polyether-modified, methylstyryl-modified, and alkyl-modified. , Fatty acid denaturation,
Non-reactive silicones such as alkoxy-modified and fluorine-modified; dimethyl silicone, methylphenyl silicone,
Straight silicone such as methyl hydrogen silicone is used. Of these, dimethyl silicone, fluorine-modified silicone, and fluorohydrocarbon have low reactivity, low polarity, poor absorption, and no compatibility with the binder resin. It is preferably used because the part is released and migrates favorably to the surface of the developer, so that the releasing effect of the developer can be sufficiently exhibited.

The amount of the liquid lubricant is preferably 0.1 to 7 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the binder resin, and is carried on the colorant and the magnetic powder. 0.2 to 5 parts by mass, particularly preferably 0.3 to 3 parts by mass, and more preferably 0.3 to 2 parts by mass.

The magnetic powder used in the developer of the present invention includes magnetite, hematite, and iron oxide of ferrite;
Metals such as iron, cobalt, nickel or these metals aluminum, cobalt, copper, lead, magnesium,
Alloys of metals such as tin, zinc, antimony, beryllium, bismuth, cadmium, calcium, manganese, titanium, tungsten, and vanadium, and mixtures thereof are used, and Si, Al,
Those containing compounds such as oxides, hydrated oxides, and hydroxides of metal ions such as Mg are preferably used. In particular, magnetic iron oxide containing a silicon element is preferable, and its content is preferably 0.1 to 3% by mass based on the magnetic powder. More preferably, it is 0.2 to 2% by mass, particularly preferably 0.25 to 1.0% by mass.

As the colorant used in the developer of the present invention, known inorganic or organic dyes and pigments are used, and carbon black and organic pigments are preferably used. These are preferable in view of the shape of the dispersion in the developer, the adsorption strength, the dispersion particle size, and the like.

For example, C.I. I. Pigment Red 1,
2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,
13,14,15,16,17,18,19,21,2
2,23,30,31,32,37,38,39,4
0, 41, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 5
4,55,57,58,60,63,64,68,8
1,83,87,88,89,90,112,114,
122, 123, 163, 202, 206, 207, 2
09; I. Pigment Violet 19; I.
Butt Red 1,2,10,13,15,23,29,
35; I. Pigment Blue 2, 3, 15, 16,
17; I. Bat blue 6; I. Acid blue 45; I. Pigment Yellow 1, 2, 3, 4,
5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 1
6, 17, 23, 65, 73, 83; I. Bat Yellow 1, 3, 20 and the like.

These are used in an amount necessary and sufficient to maintain the optical density of the fixed image.
0.1 to 20 parts by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 20 parts by mass with respect to parts by mass.
The addition amount of 2 to 10 parts by mass is good.

As a method for supporting the liquid lubricant on the colorant and the magnetic powder, the liquid lubricant is directly mixed with the colorant and the magnetic powder by using a mixer such as a Henschel mixer or a ball mill, or by diluting it with a solvent or the like. There is a method of carrying, or a method of carrying directly by spraying a colorant or a magnetic powder.

In the case of a coloring agent, a charge control agent may be simultaneously carried as a carrier. The same applies to the method described below.

Further, in the case of a coloring agent, a process of dropping and kneading a liquid lubricant or a diluent thereof using a kneader or the like and kneading the mixture as needed, and pulverizing as necessary, is possible. I just need. At this time, a masterbatch method of kneading with the resin may be used. Further, a method may be used in which a colorant is absorbed by liquid droplets such as a solution diluted with a liquid lubricant or an arbitrary solvent in a kneader, or a method in which the colorant absorbs a liquid lubricant or a solution thereof is used. You may. The solvent may be volatilized after mixing.

In the case of a magnetic powder carrying a liquid lubricant, the oil absorption is preferably 15 cc / 100 g or more, and 17 cc / 100 g or more.
100 g or more is more preferable, and 18.5 is still more preferable.
cc / 100 g to 30 cc / 100 g. 15cc
If it is less than / 100 g, the adsorption strength is too strong, and it is difficult to give a releasing / lubricating effect to the developer particles. 30cc /
If it exceeds 100 g, it is difficult to carry the developer uniformly, so that the developer particles tend to be non-uniform, and it may be difficult to obtain a sustained effect.

Examples of the type of the binder resin used in the present invention include, for example, a homopolymer of styrene such as polystyrene, poly-p-chlorostyrene and polyvinyltoluene and a substituted product thereof; styrene-p-chlorostyrene copolymer. Copolymer, styrene-vinyltoluene copolymer, styrene-vinylnaphthalene copolymer, styrene-acrylate copolymer, styrene-methacrylate copolymer, styrene-α-chloromethyl methacrylate copolymer, styrene- Acrylonitrile copolymer, styrene-
Styrene such as vinyl methyl ether copolymer, styrene-vinyl ethyl ether copolymer, styrene-vinyl methyl ketone copolymer, styrene-butadiene copolymer, styrene-isoprene copolymer, styrene-acrylonitrile-indene copolymer -Based copolymer; polyvinyl chloride, phenolic resin, natural modified phenolic resin, natural resin modified maleic acid resin, acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyvinyl acetate, silicone resin, polyester resin, polyurethane, polyamide resin, furan resin, epoxy resin , Xylene resin, polyvinyl butyral, terpene resin, coumarone indene resin, petroleum resin and the like can be used. Further, a crosslinked styrene resin is also a preferable binder resin.

The comonomer for the styrene monomer of the styrene copolymer is, for example, acrylic acid, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, dodecyl acrylate, octyl acrylate, acrylic acid-
Monocarboxylic acids having a double bond such as 2-ethylhexyl, phenyl acrylate, methacrylic acid, methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, octyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, acrylamide and the like, and substituted products thereof;
For example, dicarboxylic acids having a double bond such as maleic acid, butyl maleate, methyl maleate, dimethyl maleate and the like;
Vinyl esters such as vinyl acetate and vinyl benzoate; ethylene-based olefins such as ethylene, propylene, butylene; vinyl ketones such as vinyl methyl ketone and vinyl hexyl ketone; vinyl methyl ether and vinyl Vinyl monomers such as ethyl ether, vinyl isobutyl ether and the like; and vinyl monomers such as vinyl ethers alone or in combination of two or more.

The following substances control the developer to be positively charged.

Modified products such as nigrosine and fatty acid metal salts; quaternary ammonium salts such as tributylbenzylammonium-1-hydroxy-4-naphthosulfonate, tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate, and phosphonium salts which are analogs thereof Onium salts such as, for example, these lake pigments, triphenylmethane dyes and these lake pigments (as the lacking agent, phosphotungstic acid, phosphomolybdic acid, phosphotungsten molybdic acid, tannic acid, lauric acid, gallic acid, ferricyanic acid) , Ferrocyanide, etc.), metal salts of higher fatty acids; diorganotin oxides such as dibutyltin oxide, dioctyltin oxide, dicyclohexyltin oxide; dibutyltin borate, dioctyltin borate, dicyclohexyl Diorgano tin borate such as Suzuboreto; can be used in combination singly or two or more kinds.

Next, the developer carrier of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The developer carrier of the present invention comprises a cylindrical substrate,
And a coating layer (conductive resin layer) covering the surface of the substrate. The coating layer 1 contains a conductive substance 2, a filler 3, a binder resin 4 and, in some cases, a solid lubricant 5, and is coated on a cylindrical substrate 6. In this case, since the coating layer 1 is conductive, excessive charging of the toner can be prevented. In addition, since the filler 3 is contained, abrasion of the coating layer 1 due to an abrasive externally added to the developer is prevented, and further, the charge imparting property of the filler 3 can appropriately control the charge of the developer. . When the solid lubricant 5 is contained, the releasability of the developer and the developer carrier is improved, and as a result, fusion of the developer onto the developer carrier can be prevented.

The surface roughness of the coating at this time is preferably in the range of 0.2 to 3.5 μm in terms of JIS center line average roughness (Ra). When Ra is less than 0.2 μm, the charge amount of the toner in the vicinity of the developer carrier becomes too high, the toner is attracted to the carrier by the mirroring power, new toner is not charged by the sleeve, and the developing property is low. Becomes insufficient. If Ra exceeds 3.5 μm, the toner coating amount on the developer carrying member is excessively increased, so that the toner cannot obtain a sufficient charge amount, and the toner becomes non-uniformly charged. Becomes

Next, each material constituting the coating layer 1 will be described.

In FIG. 1, the conductive substance 2 includes, for example, metal powders such as aluminum, copper, nickel and silver; metal oxides such as antimony oxide, indium oxide and tin oxide; carbon fibers, carbon black, graphite and the like. And carbonaceous materials. Of these, carbon black, especially conductive amorphous carbon, is particularly excellent in electric conductivity, and can be filled with a polymer material to impart conductivity, or by controlling the amount of addition, a certain degree of conductivity can be obtained. It is preferably used. The particle size of the conductive amorphous carbon used in the present invention is 1
Those having a thickness of 0 μm to 80 μm are preferred.

The amount of the conductive substance used is as follows.
The amount is preferably from 0.1 to 300 parts by mass, more preferably from 1 to 100 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass.

Examples of the filler 3 include inorganic compounds such as alumina, asbestos, glass fiber, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, barium sulfate, silica and calcium silicate; phenol resins, epoxy resins, melamine resins, silicone resins , PMMA, methacrylate terpolymers (eg, polystyrene / n-butyl methacrylate / silane terpolymer), styrene-butadiene copolymers, polycaprolactans, polyvinylpyridines, nitrogen-containing compounds such as polyamides; polyvinylidene fluoride, poly (vinylidene) Vinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polytetrachlorofluoroethylene, perfluoroalkoxylated ethylene, polytetrafluoroalkoxyethylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene-polytetrafluoroe Ren copolymer, trifluorochloroethylene - highly halogenated polymers such as vinyl chloride copolymers; Other polycarbonates, polyesters, and the like. Among them, silica and alumina are preferably used because they have their own hardness and charge controllability to the toner.

The amount of the filler used is as follows.
It is preferably 0.1 to 500 parts by mass, more preferably 1 to 200 parts by mass with respect to parts by mass.

Examples of the solid lubricant 5 include molybdenum disulfide, boron nitride, graphite, graphite fluoride, silver-selenium niobium, calcium chloride-graphite, and talc. Among these, graphite is preferably used because it has conductivity together with lubricity, and has a function of reducing toner having an excessively high charge and providing a charge amount suitable for development.

The amount of the solid lubricant used is as follows.
The amount is preferably from 0.1 to 300 parts by mass, more preferably from 1 to 150 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass.

As the binder resin 4 in which the conductive substance 2 and the filler 3, and in some cases, the solid lubricant 5 are dispersed,
Known resins such as phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyamide resin, polyester resin, polycarbonate resin, polyolefin resin, silicone resin, fluorine resin, styrene resin, and acrylic resin are used. Particularly, a thermosetting or photocurable resin is preferable.

In the present invention, in order to suitably expose the conductive substance, the filler, or in some cases, the solid lubricant in the conductive resin layer on the surface of the developer carrier to the surface, or to smooth the surface. In order to form a uniform uneven surface, the surface can be smoothed by means such as polishing described below, so that more preferable performance can be imparted. In particular, it is effective for the vertical stripe phenomenon that occurs in solid black and halftone images and the rise of the initial image density,
The effect is particularly great under high temperature and high humidity.

The operation of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG.
In (A), the coating layer 501 includes a solid lubricant 502,
It contains a conductive substance 503, a filler 504, and a binder resin 505, and is coated on a cylindrical substrate 506. This is polished with a band-shaped abrasive to which abrasive grains are attached, as described later, so that the surface unevenness of the developer carrying member can be more uniformly finished than the conventional felt polishing as shown in FIG. 11B. Therefore, the amount of toner coating on the developer carrier becomes uniform, and as a result, only the toner that has been subjected to frictional charging with the developer carrier is conveyed to the development area. In particular, this method is applied to a system in which the resin content of the coat layer is large or a coat layer hardened by containing a filler or the like, particularly when the value represented by pencil hardness is H or more in JIS K 5400, The solid lubricant, filler and conductive material can be more effectively exposed than conventionally known felt polishing, and unnecessary convex portions on the surface can be removed to form a uniform uneven surface. The slipperiness and releasability of the toner on the agent carrier and the uniform chargeability of the toner are further improved. Therefore, it is considered that the above effects can be obtained.

Even after the smoothing treatment as described above, the surface of the coat layer has a Ra of 0.1 in JIS B 0601.
It is preferable to maintain irregularities in the range of 2 to 3.5 μm, more preferably about 0.3 to 2.5 μm.
The reason is the same as above.

Further, Ra change amount = Ra (before polishing) -Ra
(After polishing) is preferably 0.1 μm or more. If the Ra change amount is less than 0.1 μm, the above effect may be insufficient.

Next, the polishing of the developer carrying member with the belt-shaped abrasive to which the abrasive grains are attached will be described.

FIG. 12 is a schematic sectional view showing an example of a polishing apparatus according to the present invention. The developer carrier 507 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, and the belt-shaped abrasive 508 is brought into pressure contact with the developer carrier 510 while being fed from the delivery roller 509, and is moved in the direction of the arrow 512 toward the winding roller 510. . At this time, the belt-shaped abrasive 508 rubs the developer carrier 507 at a contact position with the developer carrier 507.

As the belt-shaped abrasive used in the present invention, a material obtained by coating and fixing fine particles of aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, chromium oxide, diamond or the like on a film of polyester or the like can be used. In the examples described below, the particle size of these abrasive particles is JIS
R6001 having a value of # 800 or more was preferable in Examples described later. If the particle size is less than # 800 (too coarse), the surface roughness of the developer carrier is rather increased, and the solid lubricant and the conductive material in the resin coating layer on the surface of the developer carrier are appropriately removed. Instead of exposing, not only the coating layer but also the developer carrier base may be polished. However, the appropriate abrasive particles may vary depending on the material for forming the coating, and are not limited to the scope of the examples described later.

Next, a developing method in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated will be described.

In FIG. 2, an image carrier, for example, an electrophotographic photosensitive drum 7 that carries an electrostatic latent image formed by a known process is rotated in the direction of arrow B. The developing sleeve 14 as a developer carrier carries the magnetic toner 10 as a one-component magnetic developer supplied from the hopper 9 and rotates in the direction indicated by an arrow A, thereby causing the developing sleeve 1 to rotate.
The magnetic toner 1 is applied to the developing section D where the photosensitive drum 7 and the photosensitive drum 7 face each other.
Convey 0. In the developing sleeve 14, the magnetic toner 1
The magnet 11 is arranged to magnetically attract and hold the “0” on the developing sleeve 14. The magnetic toner 10 obtains a triboelectric charge capable of developing the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 7 by friction with the developing sleeve 14.

In order to regulate the layer thickness of the magnetic toner 10 conveyed to the developing section D, a regulating blade 8 made of a ferromagnetic metal is moved from the surface of the developing sleeve 14 by about 200 to 300 μm.
It is hung from the hopper 9 so as to face the developing sleeve 14 with a gap width of m. Magnetic pole N of magnet 11
The magnetic lines of force from 1 concentrate on the blade 8 to form a thin layer of the magnetic toner 10 on the developing sleeve 14. As the blade 8, a non-magnetic blade can be used.

The thickness of the thin layer of the magnetic toner 10 formed on the developing sleeve 14 is preferably smaller than the minimum gap between the developing sleeve 14 and the photosensitive drum 7 in the developing section D. The present invention is particularly effective for a developing device of a type that develops an electrostatic latent image with such a thin toner layer, that is, a non-contact type developing device. However, in the developing section, the thickness of the toner layer is
The present invention can also be applied to a developing device having a thickness not less than the minimum gap between them, that is, a contact type developing device.

For the sake of simplicity, the following description will be made by taking a non-contact type developing device as an example.

A power supply 15 applies a developing bias voltage to the developing sleeve 14 in order to fly the magnetic toner 10 as a one-component magnetic developer carried on the developing sleeve 14. When a DC voltage is used as the developing bias voltage, a voltage having a value between the potential of the image portion of the electrostatic latent image (the region where the magnetic toner 10 is adhered and visualized) and the potential of the background portion is used. Preferably, it is applied to the sleeve 14.
On the other hand, an alternating bias voltage is applied to the developing sleeve 14 to increase the density of the developed image or improve the gradation.
An oscillating electric field whose direction is alternately reversed may be formed in the developing unit D. In this case, it is preferable to apply, to the developing sleeve 14, an alternating bias voltage on which a DC voltage component having a value between the potential of the image portion and the potential of the background portion is superimposed.

In so-called regular development in which toner is adhered to a high potential portion of an electrostatic latent image having a high potential portion and a low potential portion to visualize the toner, a toner charged to a polarity opposite to the polarity of the electrostatic latent image is used. On the other hand, in so-called reversal development in which toner is adhered to a low-potential portion of an electrostatic latent image to visualize the toner, a toner charged to the same polarity as the polarity of the electrostatic latent image is used. Note that the high potential and the low potential are expressed by absolute values. In any case, the magnetic toner 10 charges a polarity for developing an electrostatic latent image by friction with the developing sleeve 14. Silica externally added to the magnetic toner 10 is also charged by friction with the developing sleeve 14.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram showing still another embodiment of the present invention.

In the developing device shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, as a member for regulating the layer thickness of the magnetic toner 10 on the developing sleeve 14, a material having rubber elasticity such as urethane rubber or silicone rubber, or phosphor bronze or stainless steel is used. An elastic plate 17 made of a material having metal elasticity, such as a metal, is used. The elastic plate 17 is pressed against the developing sleeve 14 in the developing device of FIG.
It is characterized in that it is brought into pressure contact with the same position as the rotation direction. In such a developing device, a thinner toner layer can be formed on the developing sleeve 8. Other configurations of the developing device of FIGS. 3 and 4 are basically the same as those of the developing device shown in FIG. 2, and the same reference numerals in FIGS. 3 and 4 as those given in FIG. 2 indicate the same members.

The developing device shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 for forming a toner layer on the developing sleeve 14 as described above is also applicable to a device using a magnetic one-component developer containing a magnetic toner as a main component. It is also suitable for those using a non-magnetic one-component developer containing a non-magnetic toner as a main component. In any case, since the toner is rubbed onto the developing sleeve 14 by the elastic plate 17, the amount of triboelectric charge of the toner is increased, and the image density is improved.

In the developing devices of FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the hopper 9 is a schematic diagram showing that it is of a cartridge type, and a stirring member 16 is attached as required. The stirring member 16 is also attached as needed in the developing devices of FIGS.

The developing devices of FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic views of a developing device used when a so-called non-magnetic one-component developer in which a magnet is not built in the developing sleeve 14 is used. In the case of a developing device using such a non-magnetic one-component developer, a developer supply stripping member 18 is attached as necessary.

Next, an example of the image forming method having the contact charging / transfer method of the present invention will be described with reference to the schematic configuration diagram of FIG.

A rotary drum type photosensitive member 801 is rotated at a predetermined peripheral speed (process speed) clockwise in the drawing. Reference numeral 802 denotes a charging roller which is pressed against the surface of the photoconductor 801 with a pressing force, and is driven to rotate as the photoconductor 801 rotates. 803 denotes a charging bias current V ₂ for applying a voltage to the charging roller 802, the surface of the photosensitive member 801 is charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by a bias is applied to the charging roller 802. Next, image exposure 8
04 forms an electrostatic image, and the developing unit 805 sequentially visualizes the image as a toner image.

A bias V ₁ is applied to the developing sleeve constituting the developing means 805 from the bias applying means 813. The toner image formed on the latent image bearing member by development, contact transfer means transfer bias V ₃ applied 806
, And the toner image on the transfer material is heated and pressed by the heating and pressing means 811.
On the surface of the photoconductor 801 after the transfer of the toner image, adhered contaminants such as untransferred toner are cleaned by a cleaning device 809 having an elastic cleaning blade pressed against the photoconductor 801 in a counter direction.
The charge is eliminated by 0, and an image is repeatedly formed.

In the image forming apparatus having the above-described contact charging / transfer method, compared with corona charging and corona transfer,
Since the photosensitive member can be uniformly charged and sufficiently transferred with a relatively low-voltage bias, it is excellent in miniaturizing the discharger itself and suppressing corona discharge products such as ozone.

Since the toner of the present invention has an externally added abrasive, this removes the transfer residual toner attached to the surface of the photoreceptor, so that fusion and filming hardly occur. In addition, since the conductive layer and the filler are contained in the resin layer on the developing sleeve, the toner is prevented from being excessively charged,
Abrasion of the resin layer by an abrasive externally added to the toner can be suppressed.

Since the toner of the present invention contains a colorant and / or a magnetic material carrying at least a liquid lubricant in a binder resin, it has excellent releasability and lubricity, and has a charging roller and a charging blade. When these are used, these members are not contaminated and an abnormal image due to uneven charging is not generated.
Even if it adheres, it is easily detached, so that the photoreceptor is not damaged or cut off more than necessary.

Further, since it has excellent releasability from the photoreceptor, excellent transferability can be obtained, transfer efficiency can be improved, and the phenomenon of omission during transfer can be prevented. The effect is particularly remarkable in a contact transfer system such as a transfer roller, a transfer belt, and a transfer drum.

Further, since the transferability is excellent, good transferability can be obtained even if the transfer current and the transfer voltage are reduced, so that the photosensitive member is less damaged and the life can be extended.

Further, a part of the liquid lubricant is transferred from the toner to the photoreceptor and the charging member, so that the releasability of the photoreceptor itself can be improved, and the transferability and cleaning property thereof can be further improved. In addition, the releasability of the charging member is improved, and contamination is less likely to occur.

Further, the toner particles hardly adhere directly to the surface of the contact charging member, the surface of the contact transfer member and the surface of the photoreceptor, and the releasability of the toner particles from the surfaces is improved to prevent the toner itself from being fixed. Further, even if the toner particles adhere to the surface of the contact charging member, the surface of the contact transfer member, and the surface of the photoreceptor, the toner adhering position is determined by the lubricity and releasability of the toner particles. Alternatively, since the toner particles always move during this time and do not stay at the same position, the toner particles are not fixed, and further, when the cleaning member is brought into contact with the contact charging member and the contact transfer member, the releasability is reduced. As a result, the cleaning property of the toner particles attached to the surface of the contact charging member or the surface of the contact transfer member is sufficiently improved.

Further, the liquid lubricant is slightly transferred to the cleaning member, so that the cleaning property of the cleaning member can be further improved.

A toner containing a colorant carrying a liquid lubricant and / or a magnetic substance in a binder resin is inherently liable to be excessively charged by frictional charging, and is a developer in which a conductive substance is contained in the binder resin. Even when the carrier surface layer is used, the developer is fixed to the surface of the developer carrier by charge-up. As a result, the developer newly supplied on the developer carrier becomes difficult to be charged, and the charge amount of the developer becomes uneven. And the sleeve ghost or solid black / halftone becomes uneven. Therefore,
By adding a filler to the conductive resin layer on the surface of the developer carrying member as in the present invention, the charge of the toner can be properly controlled, and an image defect can be prevented. In addition, the free colorant //
Even if the magnetic material is generated and the polishing property is increased, there is no problem of scraping because the conductive resin layer is reinforced by the filler.

[0093]

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following examples.

(Production Example of Abrasive Externally Added Developer) Classified Product A Styrene-butyl acrylate copolymer (Tg = 60 ° C.) 100 parts by mass Magnetite particle powder 80 parts by mass Triphenylmethane compound (charge controlling agent) 2 parts by mass Part Hydrocarbon wax 4 parts by mass The above materials were mixed by a Henschel mixer, and melt-kneaded and dispersed by a biaxial extruder. After cooling the kneaded material, the mixture was finely pulverized with a pulverizer using a jet stream, and further classified using a pneumatic classifier, and the number ratio of particles having a weight average particle diameter of 8 μm and 4 μm or less was 15.5.
%, A weight ratio of particles having a particle size of 12.7 μm or more having a distribution of 1.0% (toner particles) A was obtained. The classified product A was externally added and mixed with a Henschel mixer according to the following formulation to obtain external developing agents 1 to 5 and 9 for an abrasive.

100 parts by weight of Classified Developer A 100 parts by weight silica fine powder treated with amino-modified silicone oil (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 0.8 part by weight strontium titanate fine powder 0 parts by mass Developer 2- classified product A 100 parts by mass Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 0.8 parts by mass Silicon carbide (SiC) fine powder 1.0 parts by mass Developer 3 Classified product A 100 parts by mass Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 0.8 parts by mass Barium titanate fine powder 1.5 parts by developer 4 min grade A 100 parts by weight amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific by BET surface area of about ^{0.9 × 10 5 m 2 / kg} ) 0.8 quality Part of cerium oxide fine powder 1.0 parts by developer (specific surface area by the BET about ^{0.9 × 10 5 m 2 / kg} ) 5 min grade A 100 parts by weight Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder 0.8 parts by weight Developer 9 Classified Product A 100 parts by mass Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 0.9 parts by mass

(Production Example of Liquid Lubricant-Supported Magnetic Material-Containing Developer) To 10 kg of magnetite particle powder containing 0.50% by mass of Si, each liquid lubricant was charged into a Simpson mix muller according to the following formulation, The liquid lubricant was carried on the surface of the magnetite particles by operating for a minute. Further, loosening treatment was performed by a hammer mill to obtain liquid lubricant-carrying magnetic bodies 1 to 3.

Magnetic substance 1 Dimethyl silicone oil 110 g Magnetic substance 2 Polytetrafluoroethylene 100 g Magnetic substance 3 Trifluoropropyl group-containing dimethyl silicone 140 g

Classified product B was prepared in the same manner as Classified product A except that magnetite particle powder of Classified product A was used as magnetic substance 1.
I got

Classified product B Styrene-butyl acrylate copolymer (Tg = 60 ° C.) 100 parts by mass Magnetic material 1 80 parts by mass Triphenylmethane compound (charge controlling agent) 2 parts by mass Hydrocarbon wax 4 parts by mass

Hereinafter, the magnetic materials 2, 3 were prepared by the same prescription and manufacturing method.
Was used to obtain classified products C and D, respectively.

Next, the classified product B was externally added with a fluidizing agent in the same manner as in the case of the developer 1 with the following formulation to obtain a liquid lubricant-carrying magnetic developer 6.

Developer 6 Classified Product B 100 parts by mass Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 0.9 part by mass

Hereinafter, classified products C and D were prepared by the same prescription and manufacturing method.
Was used to obtain Developers 7 and 8.

(Example of Production of Colorant Containing Colorant Containing Liquid Lubricant) 0.5 kg of dimethyl silicone is added to 2 kg of carbon black and 1 kg of a triphenylmethane compound into a Simpson mix muller, operated for 30 minutes, and loosened with a hammer mill. Thus, a liquid lubricant-carrying colorant 1 was obtained.

Also, 2.25 kg of copper phthalocyanine and 0.25 kg of a triphenylmethane compound were charged into a Simpson mix muller with 0.5 kg of dimethyl silicone, the mixture was operated for 30 minutes, loosened with a hammer mill, and a liquid lubricant-carrying colorant 2 was added. I got

[0106] classified product E styrene - butyl acrylate copolymer (Tg = 60 ℃) 100 parts by weight of the liquid lubricant supported colorant 1 8 parts by mass hydrocarbon wax 4 parts classified product F styrene - butyl acrylate copolymer ( Tg = 60 ℃) 100 parts by weight of the liquid lubricant supported colorant 2 7 parts by weight hydrocarbon wax 4 parts by classifying goods G styrene - butyl acrylate copolymer (Tg = 60 ℃) 100 parts by weight colorant 1 (liquid lubricant 8 parts by weight Hydrocarbon wax 4 parts by weight

Next, a fluidizing agent was externally added to each of the classified products E, F, and G according to the following recipe by the same method as that for the developer 1, and the liquid lubricant-carrying colorant-containing developers 10, 11, and 12 were added. Obtained.

Developers 10, 11, 12 Classified products E, F, G 100 parts by mass Amino-modified silicone oil-treated silica fine powder (specific surface area by BET is about 0.9 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg) 1.1 parts by mass Department

(Example of Production of Developer Carrier Having Filler-Containing Resin Layer on Surface) Specific surface area by BET is about 1.3 × 1
0 ⁵ m ² / kg of dry silica fine powder was subjected to coupling treatment with trimethoxysilane, and this was used as a filler.

Developing roller 1 Phenol resin intermediate 100 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Silica fine powder treated with coupling agent 50 parts by mass Methanol 75 parts by mass isopropyl alcohol 525 parts by mass And dispersed. A methanol solution of the phenolic resin intermediate is diluted with a portion of isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Carbon black and crystalline graphite were added and dispersed by a sand mill using glass beads. Here is the rest of the IPA
The above treated silica dispersed therein was added, and the sand mill dispersion was further advanced. Next, a conductive resin layer was applied on the sleeve using this paint.

The sleeve was used by polishing the surface of an aluminum cylindrical tube having an outer diameter of 20 mm and a wall thickness of 0.8 mm so that the cylindrical tube had a run-out of 10 μm or less and a surface roughness of 4 μm or less in Rz. The work (sleeve) was set up vertically, rotated at a constant speed, masked on the upper and lower ends, and applied while lowering the spray gun at a constant speed. Masking width at both ends of the work is 3m
m. This was dried and cured at 160 ° C. for 20 minutes in a drying furnace to obtain a conductive resin layer coated sleeve having a uniform film thickness. The thickness of the conductive resin layer was 15 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.15 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was measured to be between H and 2H. A magnet was inserted into this sleeve, and flanges were attached to both ends to form a developing roller 1.

Developing roller 2 Phenol resin intermediate 125 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Silica fine powder treated with coupling agent 25 parts by mass Methanol 58 parts by mass isopropyl alcohol 408 parts by mass Developed using the above materials The developing roller 2 was manufactured in the same manner as the roller 1. The thickness of this conductive resin layer is 15 μm.
m, the surface roughness Ra was 1.08 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was 3H.

Developing roller 3 Phenol resin intermediate 140 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Silica fine powder treated with the above coupling agent 10 parts by mass Methanol 46.4 parts by mass isopropyl alcohol 325 parts by mass Using the above material In the same manner as the developing roller 1, a conductive resin layer was coated on the sleeve to produce a developing roller 3. As sleeve, outer diameter 12mm, wall thickness 0.7m
The surface of an aluminum cylindrical tube having a diameter of m was polished to have a deflection of 15 μm or less and a surface roughness of 4 μm or less in Rz. The thickness of the conductive resin layer is 15 μm,
The surface roughness Ra was 0.75 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was between 3H and 4H.

[0114] In the developing roller 4 the developing roller 1, except that the filler used in the conductive resin layer was wet silica having a particle size of about 3μm was prepared the developing roller 4 in the same manner as the developing roller 1. The film thickness of this conductive resin layer was 12 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.35 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was 2H.

Developing Roller 5 The developing roller 5 was manufactured in the same manner as the developing roller 2 except that the filler used in the conductive resin layer was wet silica having a particle size of about 3 μm. The thickness of this conductive resin layer was 12 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.26 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was between 3H and 4H.

[0116] In the developing roller 6 the developing roller 3, except that the filler used in the conductive resin layer was wet silica having a particle size of about 3μm was prepared the developing roller 6 in the same manner as the developing roller 3. The thickness of the conductive resin layer was 12 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.05 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was 4H.

Developing Roller 7 In the developing roller 1, the filler used for the conductive resin layer is applied with a BET having a specific surface area of about 1.3 × 10 ⁵ m ² / k.
Developing roller 7 was produced in the same manner as developing roller 1 except that g of alumina was used. The thickness of this conductive resin layer was 10 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.05 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was between H and 2H.

Developing Roller 8 In the developing roller 2, except that the filler for the conductive resin layer was alumina having a specific surface area of about 1.3 × 10 ⁵ m ² / kg by BET, the same procedure as in the developing roller 2 was carried out. The developing roller 8 was manufactured. The thickness of this conductive resin layer is 1
The average surface roughness R was 0.90 μm, and the pencil hardness was 3H.

Developing Roller 9 In the developing roller 3, the filler used for the conductive resin layer is applied with a BET specific surface area of about 1.3 × 10 ⁵ m ² / k.
Developing roller 9 was produced in the same manner as developing roller 3 except that g of alumina was used. The thickness of the conductive resin layer was 10 μm, the surface roughness Ra was 0.80 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was between 3H and 4H.

Developing roller 10 Phenol resin intermediate 100 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Methanol 38 parts by mass Isopropyl alcohol 266.5 parts by mass 10 were produced. The thickness of this conductive resin layer is 10
μm, the surface roughness Ra was 1.00 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was H.

Developing roller 11 Phenol resin intermediate 125 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Methanol 41 parts by mass Isopropyl alcohol 284 parts by mass Manufactured. The thickness of this conductive resin layer is 10
μm, the surface roughness Ra was 0.85 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was between H and 2H.

Developing roller 12 Phenol resin intermediate 140 parts by mass Carbon black 5 parts by mass Crystalline graphite 45 parts by mass Methanol 44 parts by mass isopropyl alcohol 309 parts by mass Manufactured. The thickness of this conductive resin layer is 10
μm, the surface roughness Ra was 0.80 μm on average, and the pencil hardness was 2H.

<Reference Example 1> Using the above-mentioned developer 1 and developing roller 1, image evaluation was performed. For image output, a modified machine of NP-6030 manufactured by Canon Inc. was used, and the developing device was also modified so that the developing roller could be mounted.

[Evaluation Method] (1) Image Density At ten points in a solid black image, reflection density was measured by a reflection densitometer RD918 (manufactured by Macbeth).
The average of 10 points was taken as the image density.

(2) Ghost An image in which solid white and solid black portions are adjacent to each other is developed at the leading edge of the image (first rotation of the sleeve), and the density of solid white marks and solid black marks appearing on the halftones of the second and lower turns. Differences were compared mainly visually and image density measurements were referenced. The evaluation results were indicated by the following indices. : No difference in shade was observed. : A degree at which a slight difference in shading can be confirmed depending on the viewing angle. △: The density difference can be visually confirmed, but the image density difference is within 0.01. Δ ○: A shading difference at which the edge is not clear can be confirmed, but is practically OK. Δ: Shading is slightly clear, and the lower limit of the practical level. Δ ×: The density difference can be clearly confirmed and the image density difference can be confirmed. Inferior to practical level. ×: The difference in density is considerably large, and the difference in density with a reflection densitometer is 0.05 or more.

(3) Fog The reflectivity of a solid white image in a suitable image was measured, and the reflectivity of an unused transfer paper was measured. (The worst reflectivity of a solid white image-the reflectivity of an unused transfer paper) Is the fog density, and the evaluation results are shown by the following indices (however, the reflectance was measured 10 times at random). The reflectance was measured with TC-6DS (manufactured by Tokyo Denshoku). ◎: 1.2 or less: 1.2 to 1.7 △: 1.7 to 2.3 Δ３: 2.3 to 3.0 Δ: 3.0 to 4.0 (4.0 is practical (Lower level limit) Δ ×: 4.0 to 5.0 ×: 5.0 or more

However, when the above numerical values are visually judged, if the numerical values are 1.5 or less, the visual values hardly change.
The level is a level that can be confirmed by observing it well, and fog can be confirmed at a glance when it exceeds 4.0.

(4) Unevenness Various images such as solid black, halftone, and line images were confirmed, and images caused by poor coating of the developer on the sleeve, such as wavy unevenness and blotches (spotted unevenness) on the developing sleeve. The evaluation criteria results were shown by the following indices with reference to unevenness (waves, blotches, etc.). : Does not appear at all. ：: It can be confirmed by seeing through about one image out of several to several tens of images. Δ: Wavy or spot-like unevenness is observed in the first rotation of the first sleeve of the halftone image or solid black image.
No problem with photographic images. Δ ×: One to several non-uniform images appear as solid black images. Not practical. X: Unevenness also appears on solid white.

(5) Omission During Transfer Using a thick paper (0.2 kg / m ² paper) and an OHP film sheet as the transfer material, the omission of the lines and characters was evaluated. For the thick paper, the second side of the double-sided copy was evaluated. ：: Almost no void is seen. ：: No void is observed unless carefully observed. Δ: There are some hollow parts, but within the practical level lower limit. X: A hollow part can be confirmed when viewed normally.

(6), (7) Filming and Drum Fusion The evaluation was made by observing the photosensitive member after durability and by using images. ：: Not generated. Δ: Occurred, but within the practical range. ×: Not possible.

(8) Photoreceptor (drum) scratches Evaluation was made by observing the photoreceptor after durability and by using an image. A: Almost no scratch is seen on the photoreceptor. ：: No scratch appears on the image. Δ: Some scratches appear in halftone. Within practical range. X: The normal image also has an image defect corresponding to the scratch.

(9), (10) Contamination of the charging roller and contamination of the transfer roller A: No contamination such as toner adhesion. ：: Almost no contamination such as toner adhesion. Δ: Some contamination such as toner sticking was observed. Within practical range. ×: Contamination such as toner sticking is clearly observed.

(11) Sleeve Sharpening The outer diameter of the coating-coated developer carrier at the initial stage and after the end of 100,000 sheets was measured with a laser three-dimensional measuring instrument, and the shaving amount was calculated from the decrease in outer diameter. ○: less than 2 μm (very good) Δ: 2 μm or more and less than 10 μm (practically acceptable) ×: shaving of 10 μm or more (impractical not possible)

Reference Example 2 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developing roller 4 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 3 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developing roller 7 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 4 Evaluation was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1 except that Developer 2 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 5 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 2 and the developing roller 4 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 6 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 2 and the developing roller 7 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 7 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1 except that developer 3 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 8 Evaluation was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 3 and the developing roller 4 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 9 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 3 and the developing roller 7 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 10 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 4 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 11 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 4 and the developing roller 4 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Reference Example 12 Evaluation was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 4 and the developing roller 7 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

Comparative Example 1 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developer 5 and the developing roller 7 were used. Table 1 shows the results.

<Comparative Example 2> The same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1, except that the developing roller 10 was used. Table 1 shows the results.

<Reference Example 13> Image development evaluation was performed using the developer 6 and the developing roller 2 described above. For image output, a modified machine of NP-4080 manufactured by Canon Inc. was used, and the developing device was also modified so that the developing roller could be mounted. Depiction is at 23-27 ° C, 30-50
In an environment of% RH, the number of sheets was increased up to 50,000. Table 2 shows the evaluation results.

Reference Example 14 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developing roller 5 was used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 15 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developing roller 8 was used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 16 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was carried out in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developer 7 was used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 17 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developer 7 and the developing roller 5 were used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 18 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developer 7 and the developing roller 8 were used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 19 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was carried out in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developer 8 was used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 20 The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developer 8 and the developing roller 5 were used. Table 2 shows the results.

Reference Example 21 Evaluation was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13 except that the developer 8 and the developing roller 8 were used. Table 2 shows the results.

Comparative Example 3 Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13 except that the developer 9 and the developing roller 11 were used.
The same evaluation was performed. Table 2 shows the results.

<Comparative Example 4> The same evaluation as in Reference Example 13 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 13, except that the developing roller 11 was used. Table 2 shows the results.

<Reference Example 22> Image development was evaluated using the developer 10 and the developing roller 3 described above. For the image output, a modified machine of Canon FC-330 was used, and the developing device was also modified so that the developing roller could be mounted. Depiction is at 23-27 ° C, 30-50
Up to 3,000 sheets were performed in an environment of% RH. Table 2 shows the evaluation results.

<Reference Example 23> In Reference Example 22, except that the developer 11 was used,
In the same manner as in Reference Example 22, the same evaluation as in Reference Example 22 was performed. Table 3 shows the results.

<Comparative Example 5> A reference example 2 was made in the same manner as in the reference example 22 except that the developer 12 and the developing roller 12 were used.
The same evaluation as in Example 2 was performed. Table 3 shows the results.

Comparative Example 6 Reference Example 2 was performed in the same manner as in Reference Example 22 except that the developer 11 and the developing roller 12 were used.
The same evaluation as in Example 2 was performed. Table 3 shows the results.

[0162]

[Table 1]

[0163]

[Table 2]

[0164]

[Table 3]

Next, the improvement effect of the smoothing process will be described using an embodiment.

Example 1 Using the developing roller 1 of Reference Example 1 and an apparatus schematically shown in FIG. 12, particle sizes # 800, # 1000, and # 3
Tape winding speed of 15 mm with a band-shaped abrasive material having alumina of 000 and # 5000 adhered on a polyester film
/ Sec, feed speed 30 mm / sec in the axial direction of the sleeve
c) Polishing was performed with a pressing load of 2 kgf against the developing sleeve to produce a developing roller. The surface roughness Ra is 0.87 μm, 0.96 μm, 1.00 μm, 1.
The thickness of the coating layer was slightly damaged, but there was no particular problem. Further, the abrasive amount of abrasive paper of # 600 or less was too large.

Using this sleeve, the same evaluation as in Reference Example 1 was performed. Change the environment to 30 ℃, 80% RH
The same durability evaluation was also performed in a high temperature and high humidity environment.

The results are shown in Table 4.
0, # 1000, # 3000, and # 5000.
For evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 1),
It was almost the same as Reference Example 1.

<Example 2> In Example 1, alumina as abrasive grains of the polishing tape was replaced with particles # 800, # 1000, # 3000, and # 500.
A developing roller was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1 except that silicon carbide (SiC) was 0, and the surface roughness Ra was 0.90 μm, 0.95 μm, 1.00 μm, and 1.05 μm, respectively.
With a particle size of # 800, the coat layer was slightly damaged, but there was no particular problem. Table 4 shows the evaluation results of these image generations. From the top, the particle sizes # 800, # 1000, # 3
000 and # 5000. Evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 1) were almost the same as Reference Example 1.

<Reference Example 24> The coating and drying of the developing roller in Reference Example 1 was polished by the following method. FIG. 13 is a schematic view showing a conventional surface polishing device for the developing roller 507. As shown in FIG. As shown, the developing roller 507 is rotated in the direction of the arrow.
A belt-like felt 523 (not including abrasive grains) fixed to a holder (not shown) is provided on the developing roller 507.
The surface was polished by applying a pressing load and rubbing. The pressing load at this time was 4 kgf.

Using the developing roller thus obtained (surface roughness Ra = 1.15 μm, which is almost the same as before polishing), an image was formed in the same manner as in Reference Example 1. Table 4 shows the evaluation results. No significant difference from Reference Example 1 was found.

Example 3 Using the developing roller (sleeve) of Example 13, the same smoothing processing (polishing) as in Example 1 was performed.
The same evaluation was performed. Table 4 shows the results. For evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 2), refer to Reference Example 13.
There was almost no difference.

Example 4 The same smoothing treatment (polishing) as in Example 2 was performed using the developing roller (sleeve) of Reference Example 13.
The same evaluation was performed. Table 4 shows the results. For evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 2), refer to Reference Example 13.
There was almost no difference.

Reference Example 25 Using the developing roller (sleeve) of Reference Example 13, the same smoothing treatment (polishing) as in Reference Example 24 was performed.
The same evaluation as in No. 3 was performed. Table 4 shows the results. Reference Example 1
No significant difference from 3 was found.

Example 5 The same smoothing treatment (polishing) as in Example 1 was performed using the developing roller (sleeve) of Reference Example 14, and
The same evaluation was performed. Table 4 shows the results. Regarding evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 2), Reference Example 14
There was almost no difference.

Example 6 Using the developing roller (sleeve) of Example 14, the same smoothing processing (polishing) as in Example 2 was performed.
The same evaluation was performed. Table 4 shows the results. Regarding evaluation items other than Table 4 (described in Table 2), Reference Example 14
There was almost no difference.

Reference Example 26 Using the developing roller (sleeve) of Reference Example 14, the same smoothing treatment (polishing) as in Reference Example 24 was performed.
The same evaluation as in No. 3 was performed. Table 4 shows the results. Reference Example 1
No significant difference from 3 was found.

[Evaluation method] (12) Solid black, halftone vertical stripes Solid black and halftone vertical stripes are phenomena in which a difference in image density occurs in a white band in the image traveling direction. The halftone images were visually evaluated and classified according to the following criteria. : Uniform, and there is no difference in density at first glance. ：: When the solid black is slightly observed, a slight difference in density can be confirmed, and there is no problem at first glance. △: Normally, the difference in density between solid black and halftone can be confirmed by looking at the image, but there is no problem. Δ: A slight difference in density was observed, which was within a practical level. Δ ×: The density difference is conspicuous, and is a problem level. ×: Appears vertically white.

[0179]

[Table 4]

[0180]

As described above, according to the image forming method of the present invention, even when a photosensitive drum having a contact member is used, fusion or filming is prevented by externally adding an abrasive to the developer. In addition, since the filler is contained in the conductive resin layer on the surface of the developer carrier, the surface of the conductive resin layer can be prevented from being changed (scraped). Further, the charge of the developer can be suitably controlled by the filler. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to stably provide a high-definition image with a uniform image density and an appropriate image density without ghost or scattering over a long period of time.

According to the image forming method of the present invention, even when a photosensitive drum having a contact member is used, the developer is separated from the developer by adding a magnetic substance / colorant carrying a liquid lubricant to the developer. It is possible to improve the moldability and prevent drum fusion and omission during transfer. However, such a magnetic substance carrying a liquid lubricant / a developer internally containing a colorant is generally easily overcharged, and as a result, image defects such as blotches and image density reduction are likely to occur. It is easy to charge-up even in a coat layer on a developer carrying member to which is added. Therefore, by containing a filler in the conductive resin layer, it is possible to suitably control the charge of the magnetic substance carrying the liquid lubricant / the developer internally containing the colorant, and to obtain a solid black image at an appropriate image density.・
It is possible to stably provide a high-definition image having a uniform solid white and free from ghosts and scattering over a long period of time. Further, even if the abrasiveness is improved by the free magnetic material generated by the oil treatment of the magnetic material, a problem of abrasion occurs because the filler is contained in the conductive resin layer on the developer carrier and the film is strengthened. Nor.

Further, by performing the smoothing process described in the present invention, it is possible to eliminate the vertical stripe phenomenon that occurs in solid black and halftone images, to improve the rise of the initial image density, and to improve the high humidity characteristics. Thus, a more uniform and high-definition image can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a cross section of a part of a developer carrier of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a magnetic developer supply system developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (using a magnetic blade as a regulating member).

FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing another example of a magnetic developer supply system developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (an elastic blade is used as a regulating member).

FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing another example of the magnetic developer supply system developing device in which the developer carrier of the present invention is incorporated (when the elastic blade is oriented in the forward rotation direction of the sleeve).

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a magnetic developer non-supply type developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (an elastic blade is used as a regulating member).

FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing another example of the magnetic developer non-supply type developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (an elastic blade is used as a regulating member).

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the magnetic developer non-supply type developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (when the elastic blade is oriented in the forward rotation direction of the sleeve).

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing an example of a non-magnetic one-component developer non-supply type developing device in which the developer carrying member of the present invention is incorporated (an elastic blade is used as a regulating member).

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the non-magnetic one-component developer non-supply system developing device in which the developer carrier of the present invention is incorporated (when the elastic blade is oriented in the forward rotation direction of the sleeve).

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining the image forming method of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a cross section of a part of the developer carrying member of the present invention ((A) is before polishing, and (B) is after polishing).

FIG. 12 is a schematic structural view of an apparatus for polishing the surface of a developer carrying member of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of a conventional apparatus for polishing the surface of a developer carrying member with felt.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Coating layer 2 Conductive substance 3 Filler 4 Binder resin 5 Solid lubricant 6 Cylindrical base 7 Photosensitive drum (latent image holding body) 8 Regulator blade 9 Hopper 10 Toner 11 Magnet 12 Cylindrical base 13 Coating layer 14 Developing sleeve (developer carrier) 15 Power supply 16 Stirrer 17 Elastic blade A Rotating direction of developing sleeve B Rotating direction of photosensitive drum D Developing section 501 Coating layer 502 Solid lubricant 503 Conductive substance 504 Filler 505 Binding Resin 506 Cylindrical substrate 507 Developing sleeve 508 Strip-shaped abrasive 509 Send-out roller 510 Winding roller 511 Tape traveling direction 523 Felt 801 Latent image carrier 801a Photoconductive layer 801b Conductive base layer 802 Charging roller 802a Conductive elastic layer 802b Core 803 Charging bias power supply 804 images Exposure 805 developing roller 806 transfer roller 806a conductive elastic layer 806b core metal 807 transfer bias power source 808 transfer material 809 cleaning device 810 extinguishing light 811 heating and pressing means 813 a development bias power supply

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Kenji Fujishima 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Yasuhide Gozeki 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Within Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Satoshi Otake 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (56) References JP-A-8-101529 (JP, A) JP-A-7-319287 ( JP, A) JP-A-5-100558 (JP, A) JP-A-7-77830 (JP, A) JP-A 8-76408 (JP, A) JP-A-5-6089 (JP, A) JP 1986-248070 (JP, A) (58) Field surveyed (Int. Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G03G 15/08 G03G 15/09

Claims (4)

(57) [Claims] 1. A developer carrier for carrying a one-component developer for developing a latent image formed on a latent image carrier, wherein the developer carrier comprises at least a binder resin and a conductive fine particle. After forming a conductive resin layer containing a powder and a filler powder and having a pencil hardness of H or more in JIS K 5400 on a metal substrate, the surface of the conductive resin layer is subjected to JIS R6
In 001, abrasive particles of # 800 or more adhere to the surface
A developer carrier characterized in that the developer carrier is manufactured by polishing and smoothing using a strip-shaped abrasive material . 2. The conductive resin layer has a surface roughness of
Ra in JIS B0601 is 0.2 to 3.5 μm.
2. The developer carrier according to claim 1 , wherein m is within a range of m. 3. A conductive resin layer, in addition to the conductive fine powder, the developer carrying member according to claim 1 or <br/> 2, characterized in that it contains a solid lubricant. 4. A JIS K540 containing at least a binder resin, a conductive fine powder and a filler powder and having a pencil hardness of JIS K540.
A method for producing a developer carrying member, comprising: a step of forming a conductive resin layer having H at 0 or higher on a metal substrate; and a step of smoothing the surface of the formed conductive resin layer. The smoothing treatment of the layer surface is performed according to JIS R 60
01. A method for producing a developer carrier, wherein the method is carried out by performing polishing using a band-shaped abrasive material having abrasive particles of # 800 or more adhered to the surface thereof.