Apparatus and methods for delivery of a functional material to an image forming member

Abstract

The presently disclosed embodiments relate generally to an image forming apparatus comprising: a) an imaging member, b) a bias charging roller in contact with the surface of the imaging member, and c) a delivery unit in contact with the surface of the bias charge roller, wherein the delivery unit is fabricated as a polymer matrix impregnated with functional materials, such that the functional material is transferred onto the imaging member from the delivery unit via the bias charging roller. Embodiments also pertain to an improved electrophotographic imaging member comprising a very thin outer layer on the imaging member surface, where the outer layer comprises functional materials, such as paraffin, that act as a lubricant and or a barrier against moisture and/or surface contaminants. The improved imaging member exhibits improved xerographic performance, such as reduced friction and deletions in high humidity conditions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.