Multiple layer polymer interlayers having an embossed surface

Abstract

The present invention provides multiple layer interlayers having a relatively soft inner layer and relatively stiff outer layers that can be laminated without unacceptable optical distortion and used in various multiple layer glass panel type applications.

Multiple layer interlayers of the present invention have surface topography that is formed by embossing the exposed surface of the interlayer, or individual layers of the multiple layer interlayer, after formation of the interlayer or layers. The embossing process is carried out under temperature conditions that prevent the transfer of the embossing to inner layers of the interlayer.

By precisely controlling the embossing of the interlayer, lamination of the interlayer with a rigid substrate does not lead to unacceptable optical distortion caused by the transfer of the surface topography through outer, stiffer layers into softer, internal layers of the interlayer.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention is in the field of polymer interlayers and multiple layer glass panels comprising polymer interlayers, and, more specifically, the present invention is in the field of polymer interlayers comprising multiple thermoplastic polymer layers.BACKGROUND[0002]Poly(vinyl butyral) (PVB) is commonly used in the manufacture of polymer layers that can be used as interlayers in light-transmitting laminates such as safety glass or polymeric laminates. Safety glass often refers to a transparent laminate comprising a poly(vinyl butyral) layer disposed between two sheets of glass. Safety glass often is used to provide a transparent barrier in architectural and automotive openings. Its main function is to absorb energy, such as that caused by a blow from an object, without allowing penetration through the opening or the dispersion of shards of glass, thus minimizing damage or injury to the objects or persons within an enclosed area. Safety glass also ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]By precisely controlling the embossing of the interlayer, lamination of the interlayer with a rigid substrate does not lead to unacceptable optical distortion caused by the transfer of the surface topography through outer, stiffer layers into softer, internal layers of the interlayer.

Problems solved by technology

A particular problem encountered with multiple layer interlayers arises at the lamination stage of processing.

While single layer interlayers have conventionally been embossed with rollers to impart a texture that facilitates deairing, three layer interlayers having a relatively soft inner layer between two relatively stiff layers can develop optical distortion if embossing of the outer surfaces of the interlayer is transferred to the inner, softer layer.

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