The Instantaneous Effects of Water on Inkjet Prints

This video was created as part of IPI’s Disaster Preparedness, Response, and Recovery for Inkjet Printed Materials in Museum Collections project funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. It illustrates what will happen to different types of inkjet prints immediately upon exposure to water. It should be noted that prints that are not harmed after only one second might still become damaged after hours or days submerged. This video demonstrates how extremely sensitive to water some print types are. The most vulnerable prints must be stored in such a way as to never allow water, or other liquids, to touch the surface.