A method of converting a recording element is provided. The method includes providing
an imaged recording element having a convertible layer, the convertible layer comprising
polymeric particles and a polymeric binder, the polymeric particles having a glass
transition temperature Tg1, and the polymeric binder having a glass
transition temperature Tg2; heating the convertible layer to a temperature
Tp, Tp being greater than Tg1 and Tg2;
and converting the heated convertible layer of the recording element by advancing
the recording element through a pair of rollers, the first roller of the pair of
rollers being maintained at a first temperature T1 and the second roller
of the pair of rollers being maintained at a second temperature T2,
T1 and T2 being less than Tp, the convertible
layer of the recording element becoming a converted layer after advancing through
the pair of rollers, wherein the converted layer has an exit temperature Tf,
Tf being less than Tp.
