Dibond

This is a process by which photographs are mounted on an aluminium composite board (Dibond) of identical size. A flat adhesive film produces a completely smooth finish, with a matt/semi-matt UV-protection film placed over the top to shield the exhibit from damage. With a circumferential aluminium U section stuck/mounted on the reverse (set approx. 100mm in from the edge of the picture; 15-20mm thick), the refined photograph is ready to hang. Its weight can be carried easily by a pair of steel nails. Diasec The DIASEC process is a method of permanently bonding pictures and transparencies to acrylic (e.g. Plexiglas). Numerous variations on the process are possible for a whole host of applications – with each in its own way producing an optimum effect. The purpose of the DIASEC process is to affix labile materials to acrylic, forming solid panels which comprehensively protect the materials from ultraviolet rays and mechanical damage and enhance the aesthetic impact of the pictures on display. Images, prints and large transparencies are elegantly sealed with acrylic to create a fine finish. The result is a lasting crystal-clear or streak- and bubble-free matt bond between the picture and backing material. The refraction-free bond with the picture surface greatly enhances the visual impression of depth. The picture is also durably protected. Sections of larger images can be assembled flush with one another. The entire panel area is utilised; it can be subsequently cut to size or milled and holes drilled. Each individual panel measures 2 x 3m, and the standard depths are 4mm for clear glass and 3mm for matt finish.

Diasec® information

The original – tried and tested for over 30 years – is a special, licensed means of creating a lasting, streak- and bubble-free bond between picture materials and high-grade acrylic. Your master picture is transformed into a fine, elegant product that, thanks to this unique sealing, is protected against ultraviolet rays, climatic influences and the effects of chemical air pollutants. The refraction-free bond between the acrylic and the picture greatly enhances the visual impression of depth.

Due to positive experiences with regard to light resistance and mechanical resilience when using the Diasec® process as opposed to non-mounted photos or film lamination, more and more photos and prints are archived using the Diasec® face-mounting process.

Diasec® and other similar processes are playing an ever-greater role in photographic art. Museums and restorers the world over are finding out about the resilience, the light resistance of colours and the restoration possibilities offered by Diasec®.
FOGRA expert opinion of 13.05.2005 verifies excellent light fastness

Various publications and statements in recent times have generated uncertainty among photographers, gallery owners and museums with regard to changes in colour and colour density of (Kodak) photos which have been face-mounted using the Diasec® process.

Tests of light fastness carried out by the respected, neutral Graphic Technology Research Association, FOGRA, in accordance with ISO 12040, indicate excellent light fastness in Diasec® trials.

This expert opinion bears out real-life experiences: our original Diasec® mountings have demonstrated time and again that unprotected photos fade quicker than those which have been Diasec® face-mounted.