Surface protection film
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2026200993
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-11
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Field of the Invention [1] The present invention relates to surface protection film, and in particular to a surface protection film having a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layer. [2] The invention has been developed primarily for use in providing protection for countertops, furniture, automotive surfaces, paints, rough and smooth surfaces, and other applicable surfaces, and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. It will, however, be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. Background of the Invention [3] Protection films are thin layer of films that applied to objects, surface or materials. Protection films prevent scratching, abrasions, soling, staining or other unwanted damages on such object, surface or material. Protection films are used in a variety of applications such as in the automotive and electronics industries. They are likewise used in the architecture and construction field for the protection of various equipment, furniture or material from debris and dirt when construction is happening. These protection films are commonly made from plastic materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester or polyvinyl chloride. [4] However, some protection films become defective under certain conditions. Certain temperature ranges may cause some protection films to lose its adhesion on an object, surface or material. Temperature may likewise affect the quality of protection films in a short period of time. [5] Also, other protection films may not be sustainable. Puncturing, scratching, slicing or any form that causes a protection film to break are deemed defective since it will not function as a protection to a surface, object or material anymore. Such defective protection films are likely to be thrown out and replaced with other films, which results to unwanted waste. [6] The present invention seeks to provide a surface protection film, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative. [7] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 Summary of the Invention [8] According to a first aspect of the present invention, A surface protection film for providing protection to a surface, the surface protection film comprising: a. a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layer comprising at least one TPU formulation; and b. an adhesive layer for adhering the surface protection film to the surface. [9] In one embodiment, the TPU formulation comprises at least one polyurethane polymer and an alklyl amine ester.
[10] In one embodiment, the amount of the alkyl amine ester in the composition is between 0.25%wt and 1wt%. a. In one embodiment, the alkyl amine ester is selected from any one or a mixture of any one of the following groups: simple alkyl amine esters; b. fatty acid alkyl amine esters; c. aromatic alkyl amine esters; d. amino acid alkyl amine esters; e. polymeric alkyl amin esters; f. aliphatic amine esters; and g. quaternary ammonium alkyl amine esters.
[11] In one embodiment, the total thickness of the surface protection film is between 318 pm and 320 pm.
[12] In one embodiment, the layer comprising the TPU formulation is between 125 pm and 175 pm.
[13] In one embodiment, the layer comprising the TPU formulation is 150 pm.
[14] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to self-repair under thermal conditions.
[15] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to self-repair when exposed to a temperature of between 80°C and 150°C.
[16] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to self-repair when exposed to heat or hot water.
[17] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to elongate up to anywhere from 116% to 125% its original size before it breaks. 2026200993 11 Feb 2026
[18] In one embodiment, the TPU layer has a tensile strength of between 24.9 MPa and 32 MPa.
[19] In one embodiment, the TPU layer has a tear strength of between 78.5 kN / m and 65 kN / m.
[20] In one embodiment, the TPU layer has a puncture resistance of between 14 N - 16 N.
[21] In one embodiment, the TPU layer has a puncture resistance of 15 N.
[22] In one embodiment, the thickness of the adhesive layer is between 20 pm and 30 pm.
[23] In one embodiment, the adhesive layer is adapted to retain bond strength between the surface and the surface protection film under high-stress or environmental conditions.
[24] In one embodiment, in use, the surface protection film is adapted to resist staining and surface damage on to the surface.
[25] In one embodiment, ins use, the surface protection film is adapted to resist scratches and resist impacts made upon the surface.
[26] In one embodiment, the surface protection film is adapted to be used for protecting stone or marble surfaces.
[27] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to resist UV degradation and yellowing under prolonged sun exposure.
[28] In one embodiment, the TPU layer maintains structural integrity and resists discoloration when exposed to temperatures up to 80°C for 1000 hours and should not be exposed beyond 232°C.
[29] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is resistant to exposure to acidic foods, oils, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
[30] In one embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to withstand impact forces thereby protecting delicate stone surfaces.
[31] Advantageously the above embodiments discloses a technologically advanced surface protection film composed of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layer and an adhesive layer, engineered to provide superior protection for various surfaces, including delicate stone and marble. The incorporation of an alkyl amine ester in the TPU formulation, enhancing its mechanical and chemical resilience while maintaining flexibility. The film exhibits self-healing properties, allowing it to repair minor damage when exposed to temperatures between 80°C and 150°C, either through heat or hot water. Additionally, it demonstrates mechanical performance with an elongation capacity of up to 125% before breakage, a tensile strength range of 24.9 MPa to 32 MPa, and exceptional tear and puncture resistance. The adhesive 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 layer, with a controlled thickness of 20-30 pm, ensures strong adhesion under high-stress conditions, preventing detachment while resisting stains, scratches, and surface impacts. Further advancements include the film’s resistance to UV degradation and yellowing, ensuring long-term clarity and durability even under prolonged sun exposure. The TPU layer is also resistant to acidic foods, oils, and harsh cleaning agents, making it ideal for applications in high-maintenance environments. Capable of withstanding temperatures up to 80°C for 1000 hours without structural degradation and avoiding breakdown beyond 232°C, the film provides exceptional thermal stability.
[32] In one embodiment, the TPU layer has a scratch resistance level of 5 using the ASTM D3359 test method.
[33] This invention may also be said broadly to comprise in the parts, elements, and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements, or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.
[34] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.
[35] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of the Drawings
[36] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[37] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a surface protection film;
[38] Figure 2 shows a table on the physical properties of a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”) layer of the surface protection film of Fig. 1;
[39] Figure 3 shows a table on the mechanical performance of the TPU layer of Fig. 1; and
[40] Figure 4 shows a table on the environmental and chemical resistance of the TPU layer of Fig. 1. 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 Description of Embodiments
[41] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.
[42] A surface protection film 1000 adapted for providing protection to a surface is shown in Fig. 1. The surface protection film comprises, among other layers, a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”) layer 1001, an adhesive layer 1002 and a coating layer 1003. The TPU layer sandwiched between the coating layer 1003 and the adhesive layer 1002. The adhesive layer 1002 is located at least in one of the outermost sides of the surface protection film 1000. The adhesive layer 1002 is adapted to provide adhesion of the surface protection film 1000 on to a surface.
[43] The adhesive layer 1002 is adapted to retain bond strength between the surface and the surface protection film under high-stress or environmental conditions.
[44] The TPU layer 1001 comprises at least one TPU formulation. In a preferred embodiment, the TPU formulation comprises at least one polyurethane polymer and an alkyl amine ester. In this embodiment, the TPU formulation comprises an amount of alkyl amine ester in the amount of between 0.25 wt% and 1.0 wt%.
[45] The alkyl amine ester used in the composition may be different kinds of alkyl amine esters. In a preferred embodiment, the alkyl amine ester is any or a mixture of any one of the following: simple alkyl amine ester; fatty acid alkyl amine esters; aromatic alkyl amine esters; amino acid alkyl amine esters; polymeric alkyl amine esters; aliphatic amine esters; and quaternary ammonium alkyl amine esters.
[46] The composition of the TPU layer enables it to self-repair when exposed to a range of temperature. In an embodiment, the TPU layer is adapted to self-repair when exposed to a temperature between 80°C and 150°C.
[47] The composition of the TPU layer likewise enables it to to resist UV degradation and yellowing under prolonged sun exposure, and resist damages from acidic foods, oils, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
[48] The composition of the TPU layer provides various advantages that will be disclosed in the following embodiments as shown in Figs. 3 and 4.
[49] In an embodiment, the surface to which the surface protection film can be applied on is be any types of surfaces. It can be a rough surface such as marble and stone, or smooth surfaces such as mirrors, automotive plate, smooth plate, etc.
[50] In an embodiment as provided in Fig. 2, the whole surface protection film 1000 has a thickness of between 318pm and 320pm. 2026200993 11 Feb 2026
[51] The TPU layer 1001 has a thickness of between 125pm and 175pm. In a preferred embodiment, the TPU layer has a thickness of 150pm. The adhesive layer 1002 has a thickness of between 20pm and 30pm. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive layer has a thickness of 25pm. The coating layer 1003 has a thickness of between 8pm and 10pm.
[52] The surface protection film 1000 may comprise more layers not disclosed herein which contribute to the total thickness of the surface protection film 1000.
[53] For the aesthetic finish of the surface protection film 1000, the surface protection film 1000 can have a glossy, high glossy, or matte finish.
[54] Fig. 3 shows the mechanical performance of the TPU layer 1001. The TPU layer has resistance to yellowing measured at AB < 5.
[55] The TPU layer 1001 is likewise flexible enough such that it can elongate before it breaks. The TPU layer 1001 is adapted to elongate up to anywhere from 116% to 125% its original size before it breaks.
[56] The TPU layer has a tensile strength of between 24.9 MPa and 32 MPa. It also has a tear strength of between 78.5 kN / m and 65 kN / m.
[57] The TPU layer also has a puncture resistance from a puncturing force of between 14N - 16N. In a specific embodiment, the TPU layer has a puncture resistance from a puncturing force of 15.5N. The TPU layer is likewise stone impact resistant.
[58] A person skilled in the present art is familiar with ASTM D3359 tests and measurements. ASTM D3359 is a standard test method for measuring adhesion of a film by either making an x-cut or cross-cut on a film. A pressure-sensitive tape is then placed over the cut portion of the film and then subsequently removed. The amount of film material that adhered to the pressure-sensitive tape. Based on the film material removed, the adhesion is measured on a scale of 0 to 5. A measurement of level 0 shows a majority of the underlying film on the cut portion of the film was removed. On the other hand, a level 5 shows that no peeling or removal of underlying film on the cut portion of the film was removed. An adhesion rating of level 5 would mean that a film has resistance to scratching, peeling, or substantial removing.
[59] The TPU layer of the present invention has an adhesion rating of level 5 using the ASTM D3359 test method. This shows that the TPU layer is scratch resistant and is resistant to peeling or removing.
[60] Fig. 4 shows the environmental and chemical resistance of the TPU layer. The TPU layer is resistant to water up to 50°C for 200 hours. The TPU layer is resistant to high temperatures and can maintain structural integrity and resist discoloration when exposed to 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 temperatures up to 80°C for 1000 hours. The TPU layer is likewise hydrolysis resistant and is adapted to remain unchanged up to 40°C for 400 hours.
[61] The TPU layer resists acid and alkali, and is adapted to remain unchanged until 24 hours of immersion in such acid or alkali. Similarly, the TPU layer is resistant to chemical oils and is adapted to remain unchanged until 60 seconds of spray exposure from such chemical oil.
[62] In use, the surface protection film 1000 is installed with various surfaces such as automotive paints, countertops and other smooth and rough surfaces that need durable protection. The adhesive layer 1003 is placed on the target location to adhere the surface protection film 1000 to such surface. The TPU layer 1000 then provides protection to the surface from various hazards or dangers such as scratches, stone impacts, water, high temperature environment, acid and alkali, chemical oil resistance, and other hazards. Examples Example 1: Protection of a Marble Kitchen Countertop
[63] A homeowner installs the surface protection film on their high-end marble kitchen countertop to prevent staining, scratches, and damage from daily use. The adhesive layer ensures a secure bond even under high-stress conditions, while the TPU layer provides impact resistance against dropped kitchen tools. Due to its chemical-resistant properties, the film protects the marble from acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and wine, preventing etching and discoloration. Additionally, the TPU layer’s self-healing capability allows minor scratches to disappear when exposed to warm water or mild heat, maintaining the pristine appearance of the countertop. The high-gloss finish enhances the natural beauty of the marble while ensuring long-term durability. Example 2: Application on a Commercial Kitchen Workstation
[64] A restaurant installs the surface protection film on stainless steel and stone workstations in its commercial kitchen to maintain hygiene and durability. The TPU layer resists oil splashes, acidic food exposure, and high temperatures up to 80°C for 1000 hours, preventing surface degradation. The film’s anti-scratch and impact-resistant properties ensure that the workstations remain undamaged despite constant use of heavy kitchen tools. The self-healing capability allows minor abrasions to be repaired, reducing maintenance costs and extending the life of the surfaces. 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 Example 3: Protection for Outdoor Stone Surfaces
[65] An architectural firm applies the surface protection film to an outdoor stone installation in a public plaza to shield it from weather-related deterioration. The TPU layer's UV resistance prevents discoloration and yellowing under direct sunlight. The film's puncture and impact resistance protect the stone from pedestrian traffic and accidental impacts, ensuring long-term structural integrity. Its ability to withstand temperatures up to 80°C for prolonged periods makes it suitable for hot climates where stone surfaces are exposed to extreme weather conditions. Interpretation Markush Groups
[66] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group. Chronological sequence
[67] For this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence. Embodiments:
[68] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.
[69] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Description of Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Description of Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.
[70] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination. Different Instances of Objects
[71] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner. Specific Details
[72] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth.It is understood, however, that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description. Terminology
[73] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. The invention is, however, not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.
[74] As used herein the term “and / or” means “and” or “or”, or both.
[75] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun. Comprising and Including
[76] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive 2026200993 11 Feb 2026 sense, i.e., to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.
[77] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.
[78] The features disclosed may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof. Scope of Invention
[79] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.
[80] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. Industrial Applicability
[81] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the construction, automotive, and furniture industries.
Claims
1. A surface protection film for providing protection to a surface, the surface protection film comprising:a. a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layer comprising at least one TPU formulation; andb. an adhesive layer for adhering the surface protection film to the surface.wherein the TPU formulation comprises at least one polyurethane polymer and an alklyl amine ester.wherein the amount of the alkyl amine ester in the composition is between 0.25%wt and 1wt%.
2. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 2, wherein the alkyl amine ester is selected from any one or a mixture of any one of the following groups:a. simple alkyl amine esters;b. fatty acid alkyl amine esters;c. aromatic alkyl amine esters;d. amino acid alkyl amine esters;e. polymeric alkyl amin esters;f. aliphatic amine esters; andg. Quaternary ammonium alkyl amine esters.
3. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the total thickness of the surface protection film is between 318 pm and 320 pm.
4. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the layer comprising the TPU formulation is between 125 pm and 175 pm.
5. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 4, wherein the layer comprising the TPU formulation is 150 pm.
6. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer is adapted to selfrepair under thermal conditions.
7. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 6, wherein the TPU layer is adapted to selfrepair when exposed to a temperature of between 80°C and 150°C.2026200993 11 Feb 20268. The surface protection film as claim in claim 6, wherein the TPU layer is adapted selfrepair when exposed to heat or hot water.
9. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer is adapted to elongate up to anywhere from 116% to 125% its original size before it breaks.
10. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer has a tensile strength of between 24.9 MPa and 32 MPa.
11. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer has a tear strength of between 78.5 kN / m and 65 kN / m.
12. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer has a puncture resistance of between 14 N - 16 N.
13. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 12, wherein the TPU layer has a puncture resistance of 15 N.
14. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer is between 20 pm and 30 pm.
15. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer is adapted to retain bond strength between the surface and the surface protection film under high-stress or environmental conditions.
16. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer is adapted to resist UV degradation and yellowing under prolonged sun exposure.
17. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer maintains structural integrity and resists discoloration when exposed to temperatures up to 80°C for 1000 hours and should not be exposed beyond 232°C.
18. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer is resistant to exposure to acidic foods, oils, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
19. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer is adapted to withstand impact forces thereby protecting delicate stone surfaces.
20. The surface protection film as claimed in claim 1, wherein the TPU layer has a scratch resistance level of 5 using the ASTM D3359 test method.