Use papers printed with heat‑resistant inks designed for use in xerographic copiers. The ink must be able to withstand
temperatures up to 230°C (446°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions. Use inks that are not affected by
the resin in toner. Inks that are oxidation‑set or oil‑based generally meet these re quirements; latex inks might not.
When in doubt, contact the paper supplier.
Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 230°C (446°F) without melting or
releasing hazardous emissions.
Using recycled paper
As an environmentally conscientious company, Lexmark supports the use o f recycled paper produced specifically for
use in laser (electro-photographic) printers.
While no blanket statement can be made that all recycled paper will feed well, Lexmark consistently tests pap ers that
represent recycled cut size copier papers available on the global market. This scientific testing is conducted with rigor
and discipline. Many factors are taken into consideration both sep arately and as a whole, including the following:
•Amount of post-consumer waste (Lexmark tests up to 100% post-consumer waste content.)
•Temperature and humidity conditions (Testing chambers simulate climates from all over the world.)
•Moisture content (Business papers should have low moistur e: 4–5%.)
•Bending resistance and proper stiffness means optimum feeding through the printer.
•Thickness (impacts how much can be loaded into a tray)
•Surface roughness (measured in Sheffield units, impac ts print clarity and how well toner fuses to the paper)
•Surface friction (determines how easily sheets can be s eparated)
•Grain and formation (impacts curling, which also influences t he mechanics of how the paper behaves as it moves
through the printer)
•Brightness and texture (look and feel)
Recycled papers are better than ever; however, the amount of recycled content in a paper affects the degree of control
over foreign matter. And while recycled pape rs are one good path to pri nting in an environmenta lly responsible manner,
they are not perfect. The energy required to de-ink an d deal with additives such as colorant s and “glue” often generates
more carbon emissions than does normal paper product ion. However, using recycled papers enables better re source
management overall.
Lexmark concerns itself with the responsible use of paper in general based on life cycle ass essments of its products. To
gain a better understanding of the impact of printers on t he environment, the company commissioned a number of
life cycle assessments and found that paper was id entified as the primary contributor (up to 80%) of carbon emissions
caused throughout the entire life of a device (from design t o end-of-life). This is due to the energy-intensive
manufacturing processes required to make paper.
Thus, Lexmark seeks to educate customers and partners on min imizing the impact of paper. Using recycled paper is
one way. Eliminating excessive and unnecessary paper consumption is another. Lexmark is well-equipped to help
customers minimize printing and copying waste. In addition, the company encourages purc hasing paper from suppliers
who demonstrate their commitment to sustainable forest ry practices.
Lexmark does not endorse specific suppliers, although a converter’s product list for special applications is maintained.
However, the following paper choice guidelines will help alleviate the environmental impact of printing:
1Minimize paper consumption.
2Be selective about the origin of wood fiber. Buy from suppliers w ho carry certifications such as the Forestry
Stewardship Council (FSC) or The Program for the Endorsement of Forest C ertification (PEFC). These certifications
guarantee that the paper manufacturer uses wood pulp from forestry operators that employ environmentally and
socially responsible forest management and restor ation practices.
Paper and specialty media guidelines 68