Diasec
Diasec is a registered trademark for a process used for face-mounting prints like photographs on acrylic sheets. The process was invented by Heinz Sovilla-Brulhart in 1969.
Because of the different light penetration and refraction of acrylic compared to normal glass, the colours are more brilliant and the image sharper than compared to standard glass in a picture frame. A Diasec mount is usually of a high gloss finish. Because the print is glued to the acrylic glass, the result is a completely flat mount of the image.
The print is also resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light because of the properties of acrylic glass.
Process
The process aims to mount the print without air bubbles or smears. The image is face mounted and bonded to the acrylic glass with a gel silicone sealant which acts as a glue.
Normally the print is placed on a carrier at the backside. This is usually dibond, a composite plate of aluminium and plastic. Aluminium or other materials are also possible. If the print has to be backlit, translucent materials are necessary.
Uses
The Diasec process is used by some photographers to present their work. Andreas Gursky mounted "99 Cent II Diptychon", the most expensive photograph ever, on acrylic glass, probably with the Diasec process.
The Diasec process is sometimes used for billboards.
Diasec panels are backed with aluminium, reinforcing the rigidity of the finished picture and sealing the artwork from both sides.[1] The Aluminium back also enables the attachment of sub-frames that allow the artwork to hang on the wall without a traditional picture frame.
Diasec uses a primer and liquid gel, not sheet film adhesive. The biggest advantage of this is claimed to be that air bubbles and creases in the final product are minimized.
The Diasec gel is neutral curing and has an inbuilt ultra violet 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.
Diasec samples that were made in the 1970s show negligible colour shift, the whites are still pure and there is no evidence of acid erosion visible.
Diasec patent
The diasec patent[2] has expired and the process can now be freely used without royalties. However, the name "Diasec" is a trademark held by the Swiss company Alrane Inventing AG. The Dutch company "Diasec Support BV",[3] has started in 2009 to support the Swiss licensor by offering training and machines. Special fluids needed for the Diasec process are only available from Alrane to Diasec license holders.