Image separation system for large volume development

Abstract

In accordance with this invention a diffusion transfer process is provided for forming a color photographic image comprising the steps of: (a) using an integral element comprising one and only one dimensionally stable layer comprising a coating support, and coated thereon in reactive association a mordant layer comprising a material which binds a diffusible dye, an imaging layer comprising radiation sensitive silver halide, a diffusible dye forming layer comprising a diffusible dye forming compound, and a barrier layer overlaying said diffusible dye forming layer, wherein said support is selected from the group consisting of reflection base and transparent base materials, wherein said diffusible dye forming layer is the same or different than said imaging layer, wherein said barrier layer comprises a polymer that allows the passage of solutions for processing said element when said element is contacted with an external processing bath, and wherein said barrier layer impedes the diffusion out of said element of the diffusible dye formed from said diffusible dye forming compound; (b) exposing said element to actinic radiation; (c) processing said element by contacting said element to an external bath containing compounds selected from the group consisting of conventional color developer compounds of the primary amine type, compounds which activate the release of incorporated color developers, and compounds which activate development by incorporated dye developers; (d) washing said element to remove compounds imbibed in step (c). In a preferred embodiment said integral element further comprises a stripping layer coated intermediate the mordant layer and dye forming layer. In another preferred embodiment said process further comprises the step of stripping said mordant and support from said diffusible dye forming layer.