Abstract Gamut volume is one of the parameters generally used for the characterization of printers and other imaging devices. However, it can also be used for monitoring color print fading. Relative gamut volume changes plotted as a function of the exposure dose can be conveniently
used to determine the fading rate and corresponding lifetime. Calculation of the gamut volume is a challenge on its own, as a set of isolated points in three-dimensional space does not define a unique body in any obvious way. This problem has been addressed using the quick-hull algorithm combined
with a non-linear convexing transformation of the measured data points and subsequent determination of the convex hull. In this article, the optimal degree of convexing is determined empirically on an extensive set of 19 samples including essentially all presently used photoprinting techniques.
The actual use of gamut volume changes for monitoring of color print fading is illustrated on selected samples.