Fixing belt, fixing device, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

A fixing belt successively has a base material layer containing a resin, an elastic layer containing an elastic material, and a release layer, the base material layer and the elastic layer each further contain a plurality of fiber-like carbon aggregates in which a plurality of fiber-like carbons are entangled with each other, the maximum diameter of the aggregates in the base material layer is 50% or less of the film thickness of the base material layer, and the maximum diameter of the aggregates in the elastic layer is 15% or less of the film thickness of the elastic layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fixing belt, a fixing device, and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In image forming apparatuses (copiers, fax machines, printers, etc.) that use electrophotography, a fixing tape can be used to fix the toner image formed on the recording medium onto the recording medium.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a functional membrane containing aggregates formed by the entanglement of carbon nanotubes, having a diameter of less than 50 μm, a height of less than 5 μm, and a height-to-diameter ratio (height / diameter) of less than 0.1.

[0004] Patent document 2 discloses a polyimide tube formed by dispersing carbon nanotubes as needle-shaped high thermal conductivity fillers in a polyimide resin.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-140105

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-186127 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The objective of this invention is to provide a fixing method suitable for use in fixing processes where the heat source is located inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing belt, compared to cases where the substrate layer and elastic layer are composed of fibrous carbon containing only non-entangled fibrous carbon, or cases where the substrate layer and elastic layer contain aggregates of entangled fibrous carbon and the maximum diameter of the aggregates does not satisfy the following relationship, and which can achieve a long lifespan.

[0008] The specific organizations used to solve the aforementioned problem include the following methods.

[0009] <1> A fixing tape, comprising sequentially a substrate layer containing resin, an elastic layer containing elastic material, and an anti-stick layer,

[0010] The substrate layer and the elastic layer each further comprise a plurality of aggregates of entangled fibrous carbon atoms.

[0011] The maximum diameter of the aggregate in the substrate layer is less than 50% of the film thickness of the substrate layer.

[0012] The maximum diameter of the aggregate in the elastic layer is less than 15% of the thickness of the elastic layer film.

[0013] <2> According to the fixing tape described in <1>, the substrate layer and the elastic layer respectively further comprise fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other.

[0014] <3> According to the fixing tape described in <2>, the content A of the aggregates in the substrate layer and the elastic layer and the content B of the non-entangled fibrous carbon respectively satisfy the relationship A≥B on a mass basis.

[0015] <4> According to the fixing tape described in <2> or <3>, the ratio of the content A of the aggregates in the substrate layer and the elastic layer to the total content A of the aggregates and the content B of the non-entangled fibrous carbon (A / (A+B)) is 0.50 or more and 0.95 or less on a mass basis.

[0016] <5> The fixing tape according to any one of <1> to <4>, wherein the content A1 of the aggregate contained in the substrate layer is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the substrate layer.

[0017] <6> According to the fixing tape described in <1> to <5>, the content A2 of the aggregate contained in the elastic layer is more than 0.1% by mass and less than 40% by mass relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

[0018] <7> The fixing tape according to any one of <1> to <4>, wherein the content A1 of the aggregate contained in the substrate layer and the content A2 of the aggregate contained in the elastic layer satisfy the relationship A1≤A2 on a mass basis.

[0019] <8> According to the fixing tape of <7>, the content of the aggregate A1 is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the substrate layer, and the content of the aggregate A2 is 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

[0020] <9> The fixing tape according to any one of <1> to <8>, wherein the fibrous carbon is carbon nanotubes.

[0021] <10> A fixing device comprising a first rotating body and a second rotating body disposed in contact with the outer surface of the first rotating body, wherein the fixing device,

[0022] At least one of the first rotating body and the second rotating body is a fixing belt as described in any one of <1> to <9>.

[0023] A recording medium with a tonal image formed on its surface is inserted through the contact portion between the first rotating body and the second rotating body to fix the tonal image.

[0024] <11> An image forming apparatus comprising: an image holder;

[0025] A charging mechanism that charges the surface of the image holder.

[0026] An electrostatic latent image forming mechanism forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the already charged image holder;

[0027] The developing mechanism develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the image holder using a developer containing a toner to form a toner image;

[0028] The transfer mechanism transfers the toner image onto the surface of the recording medium; and

[0029] A fixing mechanism that fixes the toner image onto the recording medium, and is composed of the fixing device described in <10>.

[0030] Invention Effects

[0031] According to the invention described in <1>, a fixing tape is provided that is suitable for fixing methods in which the heat source is located inside the fixing tape and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing tape, compared to cases where the substrate layer and elastic layer are fibrous carbon containing only fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other, or cases where the substrate layer and elastic layer contain an aggregate of a plurality of fibrous carbons entangled with each other and the maximum diameter of the aggregate does not satisfy the above relationship, and which can achieve a long lifespan.

[0032] According to the invention described in <2>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to a case in which an aggregate of a plurality of fibrous carbons entangled together is provided but which does not contain fibrous carbons that are not entangled together.

[0033] According to the invention described in <3>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to a case where the content A of aggregates and the content B of fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other satisfy the relationship A < B on a mass basis.

[0034] According to the invention described in <4>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to cases where the ratio (A / (A+B)) is less than 0.50 or more than 0.95 on a quality basis.

[0035] According to the invention described in <5>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to cases where the content A1 of aggregates contained in the substrate layer is more than 20% by mass relative to the total mass of the substrate layer.

[0036] According to the invention described in <6>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to cases where the content A2 of aggregates contained in the elastic layer is more than 40% by mass relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

[0037] According to the invention described in <7> or <8>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to a case where the content A1 of aggregates contained in the substrate layer and the content A2 of aggregates contained in the elastic layer satisfy the relationship A1>A2 on a mass basis.

[0038] According to the invention described in <9>, a fixing tape with a longer lifespan is provided compared to the case where fibrous carbon is not carbon nanotubes.

[0039] According to the invention described in <10> or <11>, a fixing apparatus or image forming apparatus is provided having a fixing belt that is suitable for use in a fixing method where a heat source exists inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toner image fixing via the fixing belt, and can achieve a long lifespan, compared to cases where the substrate layer and elastic layer are composed of fibrous carbon containing only non-entangled fibrous carbon, or containing an aggregate of a plurality of entangled fibrous carbons and the maximum diameter of the aggregate does not satisfy the above relationship. Attached Figure Description

[0040] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following figures.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the fixing tape involved in the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of the fixing device according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[0044] Symbol Explanation

[0045] 80-Fixing device, 82-Sliding component, 84-Heating belt, 86-Fixing belt module, 88-Pressure roller, 89A-Halogen heater, 89-Heating press roller, 90A-Halogen heater, 90-Support roller, 92A-Halogen heater, 92-Support roller, 94-Posture correction roller, 96-Support component, 98-Support roller, 100-Image forming device, 110-Fixing belt, 110A-Substrate, 110B-Elastic layer, 110C-Anti-stick layer. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below. These descriptions and examples are illustrative and do not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0047] Within the numerical ranges described in this specification, the upper or lower limit value recorded as a single numerical range can be replaced with the upper or lower limit value of other numerical ranges described in different periods.

[0048] Furthermore, within the numerical range described in this specification, the upper or lower limit of the numerical range can be replaced with the values ​​shown in the embodiments.

[0049] In this specification, each component may also contain multiple corresponding substances.

[0050] In this specification, when referring to the amount of each component in the composition, if a plurality of substances corresponding to each component are present in the composition, it indicates the total amount of such plurality of substances present in the composition unless otherwise specified.

[0051] <Fixing Tape>

[0052] The fixing tape of the present invention comprises a substrate layer containing resin, an elastic layer containing elastic material, and an anti-stick layer. The substrate layer and the elastic layer each further comprise a plurality of aggregates formed by entanglement of fibrous carbon. The maximum diameter of the aggregates in the substrate layer is less than 50% of the thickness of the substrate layer film, and the maximum diameter of the aggregates in the elastic layer is less than 15% of the thickness of the elastic layer film.

[0053] Hereinafter, an aggregate formed by multiple fibrous carbon atoms entangled together is also referred to as a specific aggregate.

[0054] As a fixing belt, for example, a fixing belt having a fixing method suitable for a fixing method in which a heat source exists inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing belt.

[0055] In fixing belts suitable for this fixing method, thermally conductive materials are often included in both the substrate layer and the elastic layer. However, if heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer is inefficient, the temperature of the heat source heating the fixing belt may sometimes increase when heated to the set fixing temperature. This increased heat source temperature can sometimes accelerate the deterioration of the lubricant between the heat source and the fixing belt, and may cause belt breakage due to increased torque.

[0056] In the fixing tape of the present invention, both the substrate layer and the elastic layer, as conductive materials, contain aggregates (i.e., specific aggregates) formed by the entanglement of multiple fibrous carbon particles. At the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, which respectively contain these specific aggregates, the contact area between the specific aggregates is increased due to their shape, thus heat transfer is considered to be smoother compared to the case where fibrous carbon particles are not entangled.

[0057] Therefore, in the fixing belt involved in this invention, when heated to the set fixing temperature, the temperature of the heat source heating the fixing belt is suppressed from rising, and belt breakage is suppressed, thereby achieving a long lifespan.

[0058] Furthermore, in the fixing belt of the present invention, as described above, heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer can be carried out smoothly. Therefore, it is preferably suitable for fixing methods in which the heat source exists inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing belt.

[0059] refer to Figure 1 The fixing tape involved in this invention will be described.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the fixing tape involved in the present invention.

[0061] Figure 1 The fixing tape 110 shown has a substrate layer 110A, an elastic layer 110B disposed on the substrate layer 110A, and an anti-stick layer 110C disposed on the elastic layer 110B.

[0062] Furthermore, the layer structure of the fixing belt 110 involved in this invention is not limited to... Figure 1 The layer structure shown can also be a layer structure in which an adhesive layer is inserted between the elastic layer 110B and the anti-adhesive layer 110C.

[0063] The constituent elements of the fixing tape according to the present invention will be described in detail below. Symbols will be omitted in the description.

[0064] [Substrate layer]

[0065] The substrate layer in the fixing tape of the present invention comprises resin and an aggregate (i.e., a specific aggregate) formed by the entanglement of a plurality of fibrous carbon particles.

[0066] Moreover, the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate in the substrate layer is less than 50% of the substrate layer film thickness.

[0067] [Specific clusters]

[0068] Specific aggregates in the substrate layer are used as thermal conductive materials.

[0069] As described above, the maximum diameter of the specific aggregate in the substrate layer is 50% or less of the substrate layer film thickness, preferably 40% or less, and more preferably 25% or less. On the other hand, the maximum diameter of the specific aggregate is, for example, more preferably 1% or more of the substrate layer film thickness.

[0070] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of smoothly conducting heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, the maximum diameter of the specific aggregate in the substrate layer is preferably 0.5 μm or more and 60 μm or less, more preferably 1 μm or more and 40 μm or less, and even more preferably 3 μm or more and 25 μm or less.

[0071] The specific aggregates in the substrate layer only need to be aggregates of multiple fibrous carbon atoms entangled together and have the aforementioned maximum diameter; there are no particular limitations on their shape. The specific aggregates within the band can be, for example, spherical, ellipsoidal, or irregular in shape.

[0072] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of smoothly conducting heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, the ratio of the short axis Y to the long axis X (short axis Y / long axis X) of the specific aggregate in the substrate layer is preferably 0.1 or more and 1 or less, more preferably 0.1 or more and 0.8 or less, and even more preferably 0.2 or more and 0.6 or less.

[0073] The maximum diameter, major axis X, and minor axis Y of a specific aggregate are measured using the following method.

[0074] The anti-adhesive layer and elastic layer were peeled off from the fixing tape, and measurements were taken from the surface SEM (scanning electron microscope) image of the exposed substrate layer. For any 10 specific aggregates exposed on the surface, the length of the long side and the length of the normal direction were measured, and the arithmetic mean of each of the 10 specific aggregates was set as the value of the maximum diameter (= major axis X) and minor axis Y.

[0075] In addition, as a method for peeling the anti-adhesive layer and the elastic layer from the fixing tape, the same method as the thermal conductivity measurement described later can be used.

[0076] The length of the fibrous carbon contained in the specific aggregates in the substrate layer is preferably 0.5 μm or more and 100 μm or less, more preferably 2 μm or more and 80 μm or less, and even more preferably 3 μm or more and 60 μm or less.

[0077] The diameter of the fibrous carbon contained in the specific aggregates in the substrate layer is preferably 20 nm or more and 300 nm or less, more preferably 25 nm or more and 250 nm or less, and even more preferably 30 nm or more and 200 nm or less.

[0078] The length and diameter of fibrous carbon contained in a specific aggregate are measured using the following method.

[0079] The release layer and elastic layer were peeled off from the fixing tape, and measurements were taken from the surface SEM image of the exposed substrate layer. The length and thickness (thickness) of any 10 fibrous carbon fibers from a specific aggregate exposed on the surface were measured, and the arithmetic mean of the length and diameter of each of the 10 fibrous carbon fibers was set as the value.

[0080] In addition, as a method for peeling the anti-adhesive layer and the elastic layer from the fixing tape, the same method as the thermal conductivity measurement described later can be used.

[0081] There is no particular limitation as long as the number of fibrous carbons contained in a particular aggregate is multiple (i.e., more than 2).

[0082] From the viewpoints of ease of acquisition and thermal conductivity, the fibrous carbon contained in the specific aggregates in the substrate layer is preferably, for example, carbon nanotubes.

[0083] From the viewpoint of facilitating the heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, the content A1 of the specific aggregate in the substrate layer is preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the substrate layer, more preferably 1% by mass or more and 18% by mass or less, even more preferably 2% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less.

[0084] [Fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other]

[0085] From the viewpoint of further improving thermal conductivity, the substrate layer preferably contains, for example, fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other, in addition to the specific aggregates already described.

[0086] That is, the substrate layer preferably comprises, for example, resin, specific aggregates and fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other.

[0087] In the substrate layer, the length of the fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other is preferably 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, more preferably 2 μm or more and 80 μm or less, and even more preferably 3 μm or more and 60 μm or less.

[0088] In the substrate layer, the diameter of the fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other is preferably 20 nm or more and 300 nm or less, more preferably 25 nm or more and 250 nm or less, and even more preferably 30 nm or more and 200 nm or less.

[0089] In addition, the fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other in the substrate layer may be the same as or different from the fibrous carbon contained in a particular aggregate (i.e., the fibrous carbon that constitutes the particular aggregate).

[0090] In the substrate layer, from the viewpoints of ease of acquisition and thermal conductivity, fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other is preferably, for example, carbon nanotubes.

[0091] When the substrate layer contains fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other, its content relative to the total mass of the substrate layer is preferably more than 0% by mass and less than 15% by mass, more preferably more than 0.5% by mass and less than 10% by mass, further preferably more than 1% by mass and less than 10% by mass, and especially preferably more than 1% by mass and less than 5% by mass.

[0092] From the viewpoint of improving the thermal conductivity of the substrate layer, the substrate layer preferably satisfies the relationship A≥B on a mass basis, for example, the content A of specific aggregates and the content B of fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other.

[0093] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of improving the thermal conductivity of the substrate layer, the ratio of the content A of a specific aggregate to the total content A of the specific aggregate and the content B of fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other (A / (A+B)) of the substrate layer is preferably 0.50 or more and 0.95 or less on a mass basis, more preferably 0.50 or more and 0.90 or less.

[0094] The content of specific aggregates (A) and the content of fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other (B) are measured by the following method.

[0095] The anti-adhesive layer and elastic layer were peeled off from the fixing tape, and the surface SEM image of the exposed substrate layer was analyzed to measure the content. By analyzing the surface SEM image, the total area of ​​specific aggregates and the total area of ​​unentangled fibrous carbon within the surface area of ​​the exposed substrate layer were calculated. Here, the number of samples measured (i.e., the number of SEM images analyzed) was set to 5. The "content of specific aggregates A" was set as the arithmetic mean of the five samples for the "total area of ​​specific aggregates within the surface area of ​​the substrate layer" calculated using the above method, and the "content of unentangled fibrous carbon B" was set as the arithmetic mean of the five samples for the "total area of ​​unentangled fibrous carbon within the surface area of ​​the substrate layer" calculated using the above method.

[0096] Furthermore, the ratio (A / (A+B)) is calculated from the "content A of specific aggregates" and the "content B of fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other" obtained in the above manner. In addition, when calculating the ratio (A / (A+B)), if the specific gravity of the specific aggregates and the fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other are different, the content A and content B can be corrected by using their respective specific gravity.

[0097] In addition, as a method for peeling the anti-adhesive layer and the elastic layer from the fixing tape, the same method as the thermal conductivity measurement described later can be used.

[0098] [Resin]

[0099] The resin included in the substrate layer is preferably a heat-resistant resin, for example.

[0100] Examples of heat-resistant resins include polyimide, aromatic polyamide, and thermotropic liquid crystal polymers, which are high-heat-resistant and high-strength liquid crystal materials. In addition, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone, polysulfone, and polyamide-imide can also be used.

[0101] Among them, polyimide is preferred as a resin.

[0102] Examples of polyimides include, for instance, imides of polyamic acid (a precursor of polyimide resin), which is a polymer of tetracarboxylic dianhydride and a diamine compound. More specifically, examples of polyimides include resins obtained by polymerizing an equimolar amount of tetracarboxylic dianhydride and a diamine compound in a solvent to obtain a solution of polyamic acid, and then imidizing the polyamic acid.

[0103] As a tetracarboxylic dianhydride, any compound from the aromatic or aliphatic classes can be cited, but from the viewpoint of heat resistance, for example, an aromatic compound is preferred.

[0104] Examples of aromatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides include pyromellitic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyl sulfone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 1,4,5,8-naphthalene tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 2,3,6,7-naphthalene tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyl ether tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-dimethyldiphenylsilane tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-tetraphenylsilane tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 1,2,3,4-furan tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 4,4'-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)diphenyl sulfide dianhydride, and 4,4'-bis(3 Examples of anhydrides include: 4,4'-dicarboxyphenoxy)diphenylsulfone dianhydride, 4,4'-bis(3,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)diphenylpropane dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-perfluoroisopropylidene phthalic acid dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride, 2,3,3',4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic acid dianhydride, bis(phthalic acid)phenylphosphine oxide dianhydride, p-phenylene-bis(triphenylphthalic acid) dianhydride, m-phenylene-bis(triphenylphthalic acid) dianhydride, bis(triphenylphthalic acid)-4,4'-diphenyl ether dianhydride, and bis(triphenylphthalic acid)-4,4'-diphenylmethane dianhydride.

[0105] Examples of aliphatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides include butanetetracarboxylic dianhydride, 1,2,3,4-cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride, 1,3-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride, 1,2,3,4-cyclopentanetetracarboxylic dianhydride, 2,3,5-tricarboxycyclopentylacetic dianhydride, 3,5,6-tricarboxynorbornene-2-acetic dianhydride, 2,3,4,5-tetrahydrofurantetracarboxylic dianhydride, 5-(2,5-dioxotetrahydrofurfuryl)-3-methyl-3-cyclohexene-1,2-dicarboxylic dianhydride, and bicyclo[2,2,2]-oct-7-ene-2,3,5,6-tetracarboxylic dianhydride. Aliphatic or alicyclic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides; 1,3,3a,4,5,9b-hexahydro-(2,5-dioxo-3-furanyl)-naphtho[1,2-c]furan-1,3-dione, 1,3,3a,4,5,9b-hexahydro-5-methyl-5-(tetrahydro-2,5-dioxo-3-furanyl)-naphtho[1,2-c]furan-1,3-dione, 1,3,3a,4,5,9b-hexahydro-8-methyl-5-(tetrahydro-2,5-dioxo-3-furanyl)-naphtho[1,2-c]furan-1,3-dione, and other aliphatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides with aromatic rings.

[0106] Among them, the tetracarboxylic dianhydride is preferably an aromatic tetracarboxylic dianhydride, specifically, preferably pyromellitic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride, 2,3,3',4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyl ether tetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, more preferably pyromellitic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride, 3,3',4,4'-benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride, and especially preferably 3,3',4,4'-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride.

[0107] In addition, tetracarboxylic acid dianhydrides can be used alone or in combination with two or more.

[0108] Furthermore, when two or more tetracarboxylic dianhydrides are combined, aromatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides or aliphatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides can be used separately, or aromatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides and aliphatic tetracarboxylic dianhydrides can be combined.

[0109] On the other hand, the diamine compound is a diamine compound having two amino groups in its molecular structure. Examples of diamine compounds include aromatic and aliphatic compounds, but aromatic compounds are preferred, for example.

[0110] Examples of diamine compounds include p-phenylenediamine, m-phenylenediamine, 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4'-diaminodiphenylethane, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfide, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfone, 1,5-diaminonaphthalene, 3,3-dimethyl-4,4'-diaminobiphenyl, 5-amino-1-(4'-aminophenyl)-1,3,3-trimethylindene, 6-amino-1-(4'-aminophenyl)-1,3,3-trimethylindene, 4,4'-diaminobenzoyl aniline, 3,5 -Diamino-3'-trifluoromethylbenzoyl aniline, 3,5-diamino-4'-trifluoromethylbenzoyl aniline, 3,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether, 2,7-diaminofluorene, 2,2-bis(4-aminophenyl)hexafluoropropane, 4,4'-methylene-bis(2-chloroaniline), 2,2',5,5'-tetrachloro-4,4'-diaminobiphenyl, 2,2'-dichloro-4,4'-diamino-5,5'-dimethoxybiphenyl, 3,3'-dimethoxy-4,4'-diaminobiphenyl, 4,4'-diamino-2,2'-bis(trifluoromethyl)biphenyl Benzene, 2,2-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl]propane, 2,2-bis[4-(4-aminophenoxy)phenyl]hexafluoropropane, 1,4-bis(4-aminophenoxy)benzene, 4,4'-bis(4-aminophenoxy)biphenyl, 1,3'-bis(4-aminophenoxy)benzene, 9,9-bis(4-aminophenyl)fluorene, 4,4'-(p-phenyleneisopropylidene)bisaniline, 4,4'-(m-phenyleneisopropylidene)bisaniline, 2,2'-bis[4-(4-amino-2-trifluoromethylphenoxy)phenyl]hexafluoropropane, 4,4' -Aromatic diamines such as bis[4-(4-amino-2-trifluoromethyl)phenoxy]-octafluorobiphenyl; aromatic diamines such as diaminotetraphenylthiophene having two amino groups bonded to an aromatic ring and heteroatoms other than nitrogen atoms of the amino groups; 1,1-m-phenylenediamine, 1,3-propanediamine, tetramethylenediamine, pentamethylenediamine, octamethylenediamine, nonamethylenediamine, 4,4-diaminoheptamethylenediamine, 1,4-cyclohexanediamine, isophoronediamine, tetrahydrodicyclopentadienediamine, hexahydro-4,7-methyleneindimethylenediamine, tricyclic [6,2,1,0] 2.7 Aliphatic diamines and alicyclic diamines such as 1,4'-undecyl dimethyl diamine and 4,4'-methylenebis(cyclohexylamine).

[0111] Among them, the diamine compound is preferably an aromatic diamine compound, specifically, for example, p-phenylenediamine, m-phenylenediamine, 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether, 3,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfide, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfone, and especially preferably 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether and p-phenylenediamine.

[0112] In addition, diamine compounds can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0113] Furthermore, when two or more diamine compounds are combined and used together, aromatic diamine compounds or aliphatic diamine compounds can be used separately, or aromatic diamine compounds and aliphatic diamine compounds can be combined.

[0114] From the viewpoint of heat resistance, the polyimide is preferably an aromatic polyimide (specifically, an imide of a polymer of an aromatic tetracarboxylic dianhydride and an aromatic diamine compound, namely, a polyamic acid (a precursor of polyimide resin)).

[0115] Furthermore, as an aromatic polyimide, it is more preferably a polyimide having a structural unit represented by the following general formula (PI1).

[0116] [Chemical Formula 1]

[0117]

[0118] In the general formula (PI1), R P1 R represents phenyl or biphenyl. P2 It represents a divalent aromatic group.

[0119] R P2 Examples of divalent aromatic groups include phenylene, naphthyl, biphenyl, and diphenyl ether. From the viewpoint of bending durability, phenylene or biphenyl is preferred as a divalent aromatic group.

[0120] The number average molecular weight of the polyimide is preferably 5,000 or more and 100,000 or less, more preferably 7,000 or more and 50,000 or less, and even more preferably 10,000 or more and 30,000 or less.

[0121] The number-average molecular weight of polyimide was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) under the following measurement conditions.

[0122] • Column: TOSOH CORPORATION TSKgel α-M (7.8mm ID×30cm)

[0123] • Eluent: DMF (dimethylformamide) / 30mM LiBr / 60mM phosphoric acid

[0124] • Flow rate: 0.6 mL / min

[0125] Injection volume: 60μL

[0126] • Detector: RI (Differential Refractive Index Detector)

[0127] The resin content in the substrate layer is preferably 80% by mass or more, more preferably 85% by mass or more, and even more preferably 90% by mass or more, relative to the total mass of the substrate layer.

[0128] [additive]

[0129] In addition to resin, specific aggregates and non-entangled fibrous carbon, the fixing tape involved in this invention may also contain well-known additives such as fillers and lubricants.

[0130] From the viewpoint of thermal conductivity and mechanical strength, the film thickness of the substrate layer is preferably 30 μm or more and 200 μm or less, more preferably 50 μm or more and 150 μm or less, and especially preferably 70 μm or more and 120 μm or less.

[0131] [Physical Properties]

[0132] (thermal conductivity)

[0133] The thermal conductivity of the substrate layer is preferably 0.5 W / m·K or higher and 10 W / m·K or lower, more preferably 0.6 W / m·K or higher and 10 W / m·K or lower, and even more preferably 0.8 W / m·K or higher and 10 W / m·K or lower.

[0134] The thermal conductivity of the substrate layer was measured in the following manner.

[0135] First, insert the cutting blade from the surface layer side of the fixing tape into the interface between the elastic layer and the substrate layer. Advance the blade horizontally relative to the interface to cut off the substrate layer, thereby peeling off the elastic layer and the anti-stick layer from the substrate layer.

[0136] Regarding the layers of the obtained measurement object, the thermal conductivity was measured using ai-phase (manufactured by AI-Phaise Co., Ltd.) and temperature wave analysis under a load of 50g.

[0137] (Elongation at break)

[0138] Furthermore, the tensile elongation of the substrate layer is preferably 5% or more and 40% or less, more preferably 7% or more and 40% or less, and even more preferably 10% or more and 40% or less.

[0139] The tensile elongation of the substrate layer was measured in the following manner.

[0140] First, the substrate layer and the anti-stick layer are peeled off from the fixing tape in the same manner as the thermal conductivity measurement.

[0141] First, dumbbell-shaped test pieces with a diameter reduction of 5 mm are cut from the obtained substrate layer. Tensile tests are then performed on the test pieces using a load testing machine (manufactured by AIKOH ENGINEERING) at a speed of 10 mm / min, and the tensile elongation is determined based on the elongation at fracture of the test piece.

[0142] [Formation of the substrate layer]

[0143] A substrate layer forming coating solution comprising resin and additives as needed is prepared. The obtained substrate layer forming coating solution is applied to a cylindrical substrate and dried to obtain a substrate layer. The substrate layer forming coating solution contains resin, specific aggregates, and other components as needed (non-entangled fibrous carbon, additives, etc.).

[0144] Alternatively, when the resin is polyimide, a coating liquid for forming a substrate layer is prepared, comprising polyamic acid (a precursor to polyimide resin) and additives to be used as needed. The obtained coating liquid for forming a substrate layer is coated onto a cylindrical substrate and calcined (i.e., imidized) to obtain a substrate layer.

[0145] In addition, when preparing the coating liquid for forming the substrate layer, it is preferable to do so simultaneously with the manufacture of specific aggregates.

[0146] Specifically, the following method can be used: preparing a precursor liquid containing resin and fibrous carbon (also known as a precursor liquid preparation process), manufacturing specific aggregates in the system of the precursor liquid (also known as a specific aggregate manufacturing process), and obtaining a coating liquid for forming a substrate layer containing resin and specific aggregates.

[0147] The following describes the precursor fluid preparation process and the specific aggregate manufacturing process.

[0148] (Preparation of precursor fluid)

[0149] In the precursor liquid preparation process, for example, preferably, fibrous carbon is first mixed with a dispersion medium to prepare a dispersion of fibrous carbon.

[0150] Here, organic solvents that are insoluble or poorly soluble in fibrous carbon but soluble in resins can be cited as dispersion media. For example, when polyamic acid (a precursor to polyimide resin) is used as the resin, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolinone (DMI), etc., can be cited as dispersion media.

[0151] Here, the content of fibrous carbon in the dispersion is preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less (preferably 0.3% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less) relative to the total mass of the dispersion.

[0152] For example, it is preferable to perform high-pressure dispersion treatment on the obtained dispersion. By performing high-pressure dispersion treatment, the fibrous carbon in the dispersion disperses and separates into individual particles, and the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion is adjusted.

[0153] Here, the conditions for high-pressure dispersion are simply those that allow the fibrous carbon to be separated into individual particles and whose length can be adjusted to the desired value. For example, as a high-pressure dispersion process, it is preferable to set the temperature of the dispersion to 30°C or higher and 60°C or lower, and to carry out the process at a pressure of 20 MPa or higher and 100 MPa or lower (preferably 40 MPa or higher and 80 MPa or lower).

[0154] High-pressure homogenizers are used in high-pressure dispersion processes.

[0155] In addition, the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion is preferably adjusted to be about 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less (preferably 3 μm or more and 50 μm or less).

[0156] Here, the length of fibrous carbon in the dispersion can be measured by observation under an optical microscope or an electron microscope.

[0157] It is possible to control the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate based on the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion. Specifically, it has a tendency to produce aggregates with larger maximum diameters as the fibrous carbon is longer.

[0158] In the precursor liquid preparation step, resin is added to the dispersion obtained as described above to prepare the precursor liquid.

[0159] The amount of resin added relative to the total mass of the dispersion is preferably set to about 1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less (preferably 3% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less).

[0160] (Specific aggregate manufacturing process)

[0161] In a specific aggregate manufacturing process, a precursor liquid obtained in a precursor liquid preparation process is stirred by a planetary mixer, thereby manufacturing a specific aggregate in the system.

[0162] By stirring the precursor liquid with a planetary mixer, individual fibrous carbon particles in the precursor liquid gradually entangle and become lumpy, creating specific aggregates.

[0163] Here, the mixing conditions based on a planetary mixer are any conditions that can produce a specific aggregate with the maximum diameter intended.

[0164] For example, as stirring conditions, it is preferable to set the temperature of the precursor liquid to 25°C or higher and 40°C or lower, and to carry out the stirring for 10 minutes or more and 60 minutes or less.

[0165] It is possible to control the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate according to the mixing conditions. Specifically, it has the tendency to produce aggregates with a larger maximum diameter the longer the mixing time is carried out by a planetary mixer.

[0166] In the specific aggregate manufacturing process, all the fibrous carbon contained in the precursor liquid can become specific aggregates, or a portion of the fibrous carbon that has not formed specific aggregates may remain together with the specific aggregates (i.e., fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other).

[0167] Thus, a mixture containing resin and specific aggregates is obtained.

[0168] Other components (such as non-entangled fibrous carbon and additives) can be added to the obtained mixture as needed to obtain a coating liquid for forming a substrate layer. Furthermore, the obtained mixture can be diluted with an organic solvent to adjust the viscosity of the coating liquid, etc.

[0169] [Elastic layer]

[0170] The substrate layer in the fixing tape of the present invention comprises an elastic material and an aggregate (i.e., a specific aggregate) formed by the entanglement of a plurality of fibrous carbon particles.

[0171] Moreover, the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate in the elastic layer is less than 15% of the thickness of the elastic layer film.

[0172] [Specific clusters]

[0173] Specific aggregates in the elastic layer are used as thermal conductive materials.

[0174] As described above, the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate in the elastic layer is preferably 15% or less of the elastic layer film thickness, more preferably 10% or less. On the other hand, the maximum diameter of the specific aggregate is further preferably 2% or more of the elastic layer film thickness.

[0175] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of smoothly conducting heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate in the elastic layer is preferably 60 μm or less, and more preferably 30 μm or less.

[0176] The lower limit of the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate in the elastic layer can be, for example, 5 μm or more.

[0177] Unless otherwise specified regarding the maximum diameter, etc., the specific aggregates used in the elastic layer have the same meaning as the specific aggregates used in the substrate layer, and the preferred methods are also the same.

[0178] From the viewpoint of facilitating the heat transfer at the interface between the substrate layer and the elastic layer, the content A2 of the specific aggregate in the elastic layer is preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the elastic layer, more preferably 1% by mass or more and 35% by mass or less, even more preferably 5% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 15% by mass or more and 25% by mass or less.

[0179] In the fixing tape of the present invention, the content A1 of a specific aggregate contained in the substrate layer and the content A2 of a specific aggregate contained in the elastic layer preferably satisfy, for example, the relationship A1≤A2, based on a mass standard.

[0180] Furthermore, in the fixing tape involved in the present invention, it is preferable, for example, to satisfy the above-mentioned relationship A1≤A2, and the content of the specific aggregate A1 is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the substrate layer, and the content of the specific aggregate A2 is 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

[0181] On the other hand, from the perspective of temperature stability when paper is continuously passed through for a long time, the content A1 of the specific aggregate contained in the substrate layer and the content A2 of the specific aggregate contained in the elastic layer can satisfy the relationship A1 > A2 on a mass basis.

[0182] [Fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other]

[0183] From the viewpoint of further improving thermal conductivity, the elastic layer preferably contains, for example, fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other, in addition to the specific aggregates already described.

[0184] That is, the elastic layer preferably comprises, for example, an elastic material, specific aggregates, and fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other.

[0185] Here, the non-entangled fibrous carbon used in the elastic layer has the same meaning as the non-entangled fibrous carbon used in the substrate layer, and preferably the same as in other applications.

[0186] When the elastic layer contains fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other, its content relative to the total mass of the elastic layer is preferably more than 0% by mass and less than 20% by mass, more preferably more than 0.1% by mass and less than 15% by mass, even more preferably more than 0.3% by mass and less than 10% by mass, and especially preferably more than 0.5% by mass and less than 8% by mass.

[0187] In addition, in the elastic layer, it is preferable that the content A of specific aggregates and the content B of fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other satisfy the relationship A≥B on a mass basis.

[0188] Furthermore, the ratio of the content A of the specific aggregates in the elastic layer to the total content A of the specific aggregates and the content B of the fibrous carbon that are not entangled with each other (A / (A+B)) is preferably 0.50 or more and 0.95 or less, more preferably 0.75 or more and 0.95 or less, on a mass basis.

[0189] [Elastic Materials]

[0190] Examples of elastic materials included in the elastic layer include fluoropolymers, silicone resins, silicone rubber, fluororubber, and fluorosilicone rubber. Among these, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, thermal conductivity, and insulation, silicone rubber and fluororubber are preferred, and silicone rubber is more preferred.

[0191] Examples of silicone rubbers include RTV silicone rubber, HTV silicone rubber, and liquid silicone rubber. More specifically, examples include polydimethyl silicone rubber (MQ), methyl vinyl silicone rubber (VMQ), methyl phenyl silicone rubber (PMQ), and fluorosilicone rubber (FVMQ).

[0192] As for silicone rubber, silicone rubber with addition reaction as the main crosslinking method is preferred. Furthermore, silicone rubber is known to have various types of functional groups, such as dimethyl silicone rubber having methyl groups, methylphenyl silicone rubber having methyl and phenyl groups, vinyl silicone rubber having vinyl groups (including vinyl silicone rubber), etc.

[0193] Furthermore, as a silicone rubber, vinyl silicone rubber having vinyl groups is preferred, and silicone rubber having an organopolysiloxane structure having vinyl groups and an organoargon polysiloxane structure having hydrogen atoms (SiH) bonded to silicon atoms is more preferred.

[0194] Examples of fluororubbers include vinylidene fluoride rubbers, tetrafluoroethylene / propylene rubbers, tetrafluoroethylene / perfluoromethyl vinyl ethers, phosphazene rubbers, and fluoropolyethers.

[0195] The elastic material is preferably silicone rubber as the main component (i.e., it contains more than 50% by mass of silicone rubber relative to the total mass of the elastic material).

[0196] The content of silicone rubber relative to the total mass of the elastic material used in the elastic layer is, for example, more preferably 90% by mass or more, more preferably 99% by mass or more, and may also be 100% by mass.

[0197] The content of elastic material in the elastic layer is preferably 60% by mass or more, more preferably 70% by mass or more, and even more preferably 80% by mass or more, relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

[0198] [additive]

[0199] In addition to the above-mentioned components, the elastic layer may also contain specific aggregates, inorganic fillers other than fibrous carbon, softeners (paraffins, etc.), processing aids (stearic acid, etc.), anti-aging agents (amines, etc.), vulcanizing agents (sulfur, metal oxides, peroxides, etc.) and other additives.

[0200] The thickness (film thickness) of the elastic layer is preferably 30 μm or more and 600 μm or less, and more preferably 100 μm or more and 500 μm or less.

[0201] [Physical Properties]

[0202] (thermal conductivity)

[0203] The thermal conductivity of the elastic layer is preferably 1.0 W / m·K or higher and 4.5 W / m·K or lower, more preferably 2.0 W / m·K or higher and 4.5 W / m·K or lower, and even more preferably 3.5 W / m·K or higher and 4.5 W / m·K or lower.

[0204] The thermal conductivity of the elastic layer was measured in the following manner.

[0205] First, using a cutting blade, make a cut from the release layer side of the fixing tape to the release layer / elastic layer interface. Then, by hand, grasp only the release layer and pull radially while rotating the tape, thereby peeling off the release layer. Next, insert the cutting blade into the elastic layer / substrate layer interface and advance the blade horizontally relative to the interface, thereby peeling off the substrate layer.

[0206] Regarding the elastic layer of the obtained object, the thermal conductivity was measured using ai-phase (manufactured by AI-Phaise Co., Ltd.) and temperature wave analysis under a load of 50g.

[0207] (Young's modulus)

[0208] The Young's modulus of the elastic layer is preferably 0.2 MPa or more and 1.0 MPa or less, more preferably 0.2 MPa or more and 0.8 MPa or less, and even more preferably 0.2 MPa or more and 0.6 MPa or less.

[0209] The Young's modulus of the elastic layer is measured in the following manner.

[0210] First, the substrate layer and the anti-stick layer are peeled off from the fixing tape in the same manner as the thermal conductivity measurement.

[0211] The elastic layer of the obtained object was measured using RHEOVIBRON (manufactured by ORIENTEC CO.,LTD.) at an amplitude of 50 μm and a frequency of 10 Hz, and the value was taken at 150 °C.

[0212] [Formation of the elastic layer]

[0213] The elastic layer can be formed using known methods, such as coating.

[0214] When silicone rubber is used as the elastic material for the elastic layer, for example, firstly, a coating liquid for forming the elastic layer is prepared, comprising liquid silicone rubber that cures to become silicone rubber by heating. Next, the coating liquid for forming the elastic layer is applied to a substrate layer to form a coating film, and the coating film is vulcanized as needed, thereby forming an elastic layer on the substrate layer. Furthermore, in the vulcanization of the coating film, examples of vulcanization temperatures include 150°C or higher and 250°C or lower, and examples of vulcanization times include 30 minutes or higher and 120 minutes or lower.

[0215] Furthermore, when preparing the above-mentioned coating liquid for forming the elastic layer, it is preferable to do so simultaneously with the manufacture of a specific aggregate.

[0216] Specifically, the following method can be used: prepare a precursor liquid containing elastic material and fibrous carbon (also known as the precursor liquid preparation process), manufacture specific aggregates in the system of the precursor liquid (also known as the specific aggregate manufacturing process), and obtain a coating liquid containing elastic material and specific aggregates.

[0217] Here, the precursor fluid preparation process and the specific aggregate manufacturing process are explained.

[0218] (Preparation of precursor fluid)

[0219] In the precursor liquid preparation process, for example, preferably, fibrous carbon is first mixed with a dispersion medium to prepare a dispersion of fibrous carbon.

[0220] Here, organic solvents that are insoluble or poorly soluble in fibrous carbon but soluble in elastic materials can be cited as dispersion media. For example, when silicone rubber is used as an elastic material, butyl acetate, toluene, heptane, benzene, and acetone can be cited as dispersion media.

[0221] Here, the content of fibrous carbon in the dispersion is preferably 10% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less (preferably 15% by mass or more and 30% by mass or less) relative to the total mass of the dispersion.

[0222] For example, it is preferable to perform high-pressure dispersion treatment on the obtained dispersion. By performing high-pressure dispersion treatment, the fibrous carbon in the dispersion disperses and separates into individual particles, and the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion is adjusted.

[0223] Here, the conditions for high-pressure dispersion are simply those that allow the fibrous carbon to be separated into individual particles and whose length can be adjusted to the desired value. For example, as a high-pressure dispersion process, it is preferable to set the temperature of the dispersion to 30°C or higher and 60°C or lower, and to carry out the process at a pressure of 20 MPa or higher and 100 MPa or lower (preferably 40 MPa or higher and 80 MPa or lower).

[0224] High-pressure homogenizers are used, for example, in high-pressure dispersion processes.

[0225] In addition, the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion is preferably adjusted to be about 1.5 μm or more and 18 μm or less (preferably 2 μm or more and 15 μm or less).

[0226] Here, the length of fibrous carbon in the dispersion can be measured by observation under an optical microscope or an electron microscope.

[0227] It is possible to control the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate based on the length of the fibrous carbon in the dispersion. Specifically, it has a tendency to produce aggregates with larger maximum diameters as the fibrous carbon is longer.

[0228] In the precursor liquid preparation process, an elastic material is added to the dispersion obtained as described above to prepare the precursor liquid.

[0229] The amount of elastic material added relative to the total mass of the precursor liquid is preferably adjusted to be 10% by mass or more and 90% by mass or less (preferably 15% by mass or more and 60% by mass or less).

[0230] (Specific aggregate manufacturing process)

[0231] In a specific aggregate manufacturing process, a precursor liquid obtained in a precursor liquid preparation process is stirred by a planetary mixer, thereby manufacturing a specific aggregate in the system.

[0232] By stirring the precursor liquid with a planetary mixer, individual fibrous carbon particles in the precursor liquid gradually entangle and become lumpy, creating specific aggregates.

[0233] Here, the mixing conditions based on a planetary mixer are any conditions that can produce a specific aggregate with the maximum diameter intended.

[0234] For example, as stirring conditions, it is preferable to set the temperature of the precursor liquid to 25°C or higher and 40°C or lower, and to carry out the stirring under vacuum conditions for 10 minutes or more and 60 minutes or less.

[0235] It is possible to control the maximum diameter of a specific aggregate according to the mixing conditions. Specifically, it has the tendency to produce aggregates with a larger maximum diameter the longer the mixing time is carried out by a planetary mixer.

[0236] In the specific aggregate manufacturing process, all the fibrous carbon contained in the precursor liquid can become specific aggregates, or a portion of the fibrous carbon that has not formed specific aggregates may remain together with the specific aggregates (i.e., fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other).

[0237] Thus, a mixture containing elastic materials and specific aggregates is obtained.

[0238] Other components (such as non-entangled fibrous carbon and additives) can be added to the obtained mixture as needed to obtain a coating liquid for forming an elastic layer. Furthermore, the obtained mixture can be diluted with an organic solvent to adjust the viscosity of the coating liquid.

[0239] [Anti-stick layer]

[0240] The fixing tape involved in this invention has an anti-sticking layer on the elastic layer.

[0241] The anti-stick layer is a layer that inhibits the adhesion of the toner image, which is in a molten state during fixing, to the side (outer peripheral surface) that is in contact with the recording medium.

[0242] The non-stick layer requires, for example, heat resistance or non-stick properties. From this perspective, heat-resistant release materials are preferred among the materials constituting the non-stick layer; specifically, fluororubber, fluororesin, silicone resin, polyimide resin, etc.

[0243] Among them, fluoropolymer resin is preferred as a heat-resistant release material.

[0244] Specifically, examples of fluoropolymers include tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), polyethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), and fluoroethylene (PVF).

[0245] Surface treatment can be applied to the elastic layer side of the anti-stick layer. Surface treatment can be wet or dry, such as liquid ammonia treatment, excimer laser treatment, or plasma treatment.

[0246] The thickness of the anti-stick layer is preferably 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and more preferably 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0247] The anti-stick layer can be formed using any known method, such as coating.

[0248] Alternatively, a tubular anti-adhesive layer can be prepared in advance and wrapped around the outer periphery of the elastic layer to form an anti-adhesive layer. Alternatively, an adhesive layer (e.g., an adhesive layer containing an epoxy-based silane coupling agent) can be formed on the inner surface of the tubular anti-adhesive layer and then wrapped around its outer periphery.

[0249] The film thickness of the fixing tape involved in this invention is preferably 0.06 mm or more and 0.90 mm or less, more preferably 0.15 mm or more and 0.70 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.10 mm or more and 0.60 mm or less.

[0250] [Uses of fixing belt components]

[0251] The fixing belt involved in this invention can also be applied to either a heating belt or a pressurizing belt, but as already described, it is preferably applied to fixing methods in which the heat source is located inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing belt.

[0252] <Fixing Device>

[0253] The fixing apparatus according to the present invention has various structures. For example, a fixing apparatus can be illustrated as follows: a first rotating body and a second rotating body disposed on the outer surface of the first rotating body are included, and a recording medium on which a toner image is formed is inserted through a contact portion between the first rotating body and the second rotating body to fix the toner image. Furthermore, at least one of the first rotating body and the second rotating body is fitted with the fixing belt according to the present invention. In addition, in the fixing apparatus according to the present invention, at least one of the first rotating body and the second rotating body to which the fixing belt according to the present invention is fitted preferably has a heat source on its inner side.

[0254] Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the fixing apparatus according to the present invention, a fixing apparatus having a heating belt and a heating roller to which the fixing belt according to the present invention is applied will be described.

[0255] Furthermore, the fixing apparatus of this invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. It can be a fixing apparatus equipped with a heating belt and a pressure belt, or a fixing apparatus equipped with a heating roller and a pressure belt. In these fixing apparatuses, the fixing belt of this invention can also be applied to either a heating belt or a pressure belt.

[0256] (Implementation of the fixing device)

[0257] refer to Figure 2 The first embodiment of the fixing device will be described. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of the fixing device (i.e., fixing device 80).

[0258] like Figure 2As shown, the fixing device 80 is configured, for example, to include a fixing belt module 86 equipped with a heating belt 84 (an example of a first rotating body) and a pressure roller 88 (an example of a second rotating body) that presses against the heating belt 84 (fixing belt module 86). Furthermore, for example, a clamping region N (roller gap) is formed at the contact portion between the heating belt 84 (fixing belt module 86) and the pressure roller 88. In the clamping region N, the paper K (an example of a recording medium) is pressed and heated, and the toner image is fixed.

[0259] The fixing belt module 86 includes, for example, an annular heating belt 84, a heating pressing roller 89 on which the heating belt 84 is wound on the side of the pressure roller 88 and is driven by the rotational force of a motor (not shown) to push the heating belt 84 from its inner circumferential surface toward the side of the pressure roller 88, and a support roller 90 that supports the heating belt 84 from the inside at a different position than the heating pressing roller 89.

[0260] The fixing belt module 86 includes, for example, a support roller 92 disposed on the outside of the heating belt 84 and defining its surrounding path, a posture correction roller 94 for correcting the posture of the heating belt 84 from the heating press roller 89 to the support roller 90, and a support roller 98 that applies tension to the heating belt 84 from the inner circumference on the downstream side of the clamping area N formed by the heating belt 84 and the pressure roller 88.

[0261] Furthermore, the fixing belt module 86 is configured, for example, to have a sheet-like sliding member 82 inserted between the heating belt 84 and the heating press roller 89.

[0262] The sliding member 82 is configured, for example, to have its sliding surface in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the heating band 84, and to participate in the retention and supply of oil in the presence of the heating band 84.

[0263] Here, the sliding member 82 is configured, for example, to be supported at both ends by the support member 96.

[0264] A halogen heater 89A (an example of a heat source) is provided inside the heated pressing roller 89.

[0265] The support roller 90 is, for example, a cylindrical roller made of aluminum, and is equipped with a halogen heater 90A (an example of a heat source) inside, and heats the heating belt 84 from the inner circumferential side.

[0266] For example, spring components (not shown) are provided at both ends of the support roller 90 to press the heating band 84 outward.

[0267] The support roller 92 is, for example, a cylindrical roller made of aluminum, and an anti-sticking layer made of fluororesin with a thickness of 20 μm is formed on the surface of the support roller 92.

[0268] The anti-stick layer of the support roller 92 is formed, for example, to prevent colorant or paper dust from the outer periphery of the heating belt 84 from accumulating on the support roller 92.

[0269] A halogen heater 92A (an example of a heat source) is provided inside the support roller 92, and the heating belt 84 is heated from the outer peripheral side.

[0270] That is, for example, it becomes a structure in which the heating belt 84 is heated by heating the pressing roller 89, the support roller 90 and the support roller 92.

[0271] The posture correction roller 94 is, for example, a cylindrical roller made of aluminum, and an end position measuring mechanism (not shown) for measuring the end position of the heating belt 84 is arranged near the posture correction roller 94.

[0272] The posture correction roller 94 is provided with, for example, an axial displacement mechanism (not shown) that displaces the contact position of the heating belt 84 in the axial direction based on the measurement results of the end position measuring mechanism, and is configured to control the serpentine movement of the heating belt 84.

[0273] On the other hand, the pressure roller 88 is supported to rotate freely, and is configured to be pressed by the portion of the heating belt 84 wound around the heating press roller 89 via a force-applying mechanism such as a spring (not shown). As a result, the heating belt 84 (heating press roller 89) of the fixing belt module 86 rotates and moves in the direction of arrow S, and the pressure roller 88 rotates and moves in the direction of arrow R, driven by the heating belt 84 (heating press roller 89).

[0274] Furthermore, the paper K with an unfixed toner image (not shown) is conveyed in the direction of arrow P and guided to the clamping area N of the fixing device 80. Moreover, as the paper K passes through the clamping area N, the unfixed toner image on the paper K is fixed by the pressure and heat acting on the clamping area N.

[0275] In addition, in the fixing device 80, a halogen heater (halogen lamp) was used as an example of having a plurality of heat sources, but it is not limited to this. Other heating elements besides halogen heaters, such as radiant lamp heating elements (heating elements that emit radiation (infrared rays, etc.)) and resistive heating elements (heating elements that generate Joule heat by allowing current to flow through a resistor: for example, heating elements that form a resistive film on a ceramic substrate and then calcining it, etc.), can also be used.

[0276] <Image forming apparatus>

[0277] Next, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described.

[0278] The image forming apparatus of the present invention comprises: an image holder; a charging mechanism for charging the surface of the image holder; an electrostatic latent image forming mechanism for forming an electrostatic latent image on the charged surface of the image holder; a developing mechanism for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the image holder using a developing agent containing a toner, thereby forming a toner image; a transfer mechanism for transferring the toner image onto the surface of a recording medium; and a fixing mechanism for fixing the toner image onto the recording medium.

[0279] Furthermore, the fixing device involved in this invention is applicable as a fixing mechanism.

[0280] In this invention, the fixing device can be configured as a box-type unit for easy attachment and removal from the image forming apparatus. That is, the image forming apparatus of this invention, as a processing box structure, can include the fixing device described in this invention.

[0281] Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0282] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[0283] like Figure 3 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention is, for example, an image forming apparatus of the intermediate transfer method commonly referred to as a series type, comprising: a plurality of image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K that form tonal images of each color component by electrophotography; a primary transfer unit 10 that sequentially transfers (primarily transfers) the tonal images of each color component formed by each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K to an intermediate transfer belt 15; a secondary transfer unit 20 that transfers (secondarily transfers) the overlapping tonal images transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 15 together to a recording medium, i.e., paper K; and a fixing device 80 that fixes the secondary transferred image onto the paper K. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 has a control unit 40 that controls the operation of each device (unit).

[0284] The fixing device 80 is an embodiment of the fixing device according to the present invention as described above. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is not limited to the fixing device 80, as long as it includes the fixing device according to the present invention.

[0285] Each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, 1K of the image forming apparatus 100, as an example of an image holder that holds a tonal image formed on a surface, has a photoreceptor 11 that rotates in the direction of arrow A.

[0286] Around the photoreceptor 11, as an example of a charging mechanism, there is a charger 12 that charges the photoreceptor 11, and as an example of a latent image forming mechanism, there is a laser exposure unit 13 (in the figure, the symbol Bm represents the exposure beam) that writes an electrostatic latent image onto the photoreceptor 11.

[0287] Furthermore, a developer 14 is provided around the photoreceptor 11 as an example of a developing mechanism. This developer contains toners of various color components and visualizes the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor 11 through the toners. A primary transfer roller 16 is also provided to transfer the toner images of various color components formed on the photoreceptor 11 to the intermediate transfer belt 15 through the primary transfer section 10.

[0288] Furthermore, a photoreceptor cleaner 17 is provided around the photoreceptor 11 to remove residual toner from the photoreceptor 11, and an electrophotographic device consisting of a belt conveyor 12, a laser exposer 13, a developer 14, a primary transfer roller 16, and the photoreceptor cleaner 17 is arranged sequentially along the rotation direction of the photoreceptor 11. These image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are arranged in a generally linear order from the upstream side of the intermediate transfer belt 15 in the order of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K).

[0289] The intermediate transfer body, or intermediate transfer tape 15, is a thin-film pressure tape consisting of a base layer of a resin such as polyimide or polyamide and containing an appropriate amount of an antistatic agent such as carbon black. Furthermore, it is formed such that its volume resistivity is 10. 6 Ωcm or more and 10 14 For thicknesses below Ωcm, the thickness is, for example, about 0.1mm.

[0290] Intermediate transfer belt 15 passes through various roller edges Figure 3 The direction B shown is cyclically driven (rotated) at a speed corresponding to the purpose. As various rollers, there is a drive roller 31 that is driven by a motor (not shown) with excellent constant speed to rotate the intermediate transfer belt 15, a support roller 32 that supports the intermediate transfer belt 15 which extends in a generally straight line along the arrangement direction of each photosensitive element 11, a tension-applying roller 33 that applies tension to the intermediate transfer belt 15 and prevents the intermediate transfer belt 15 from serpentinizing, a back roller 25 provided in the secondary transfer section 20, and a cleaning back roller 34 provided in the cleaning section that scrapes off residual toner on the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0291] The primary transfer section 10 consists of a primary transfer roller 16 positioned opposite the photosensitive element 11, separated by an intermediate transfer belt 15. The primary transfer roller 16 comprises a core and a sponge layer attached around the core as an elastic layer. The core is a cylindrical rod made of metals such as iron or SUS. The sponge layer is formed of a mixture of NBR, SBR, and EPDM rubber mixed with conductive agents such as carbon black, and has a volume resistivity of 10 Ω·cm.7.5 Ωcm or more and 10 8.5 Sponge-like cylindrical rollers with a diameter of less than Ωcm.

[0292] Furthermore, the primary transfer roller 16 is pressed against the photoreceptor 11 across the intermediate transfer belt 15, and a voltage of polarity (negative polarity, the same applies below) and opposite polarity (primary transfer bias voltage) of the toner is applied to the primary transfer roller 16. As a result, the toner images on each photoreceptor 11 are sequentially electrostatically attracted by the intermediate transfer belt 15, thereby forming overlapping toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0293] The secondary transfer section 20 is configured to have a back roller 25 and a secondary transfer roller 22 disposed on the toner image holding side of the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0294] The surface of the back roller 25 is made of a flexible tube of a mixture of EPDM and NBR rubber with dispersed carbon, and the interior is made of EPDM rubber. Furthermore, its surface resistivity is set to 10. 7 Ω / Υ or higher and 10 10 For Ω / Y and below, the hardness is set to, for example, 70° (AskerC: Kobunshi Keiki Co., Ltd., the same applies below). The back roller 25 is disposed on the back side of the intermediate transfer belt 15 to form the opposing electrode of the secondary transfer roller 22, and is in contact with the metal power supply roller 26 that stably applies the secondary transfer bias voltage.

[0295] On the other hand, the secondary transfer roller 22 consists of a core and a sponge layer attached around the core as an elastic layer. The core is a cylindrical rod made of metals such as iron and SUS. The sponge layer is formed of a mixed rubber of NBR, SBR, and EPDM mixed with conductive agents such as carbon black, and has a volume resistivity of 10. 7.5 Ωcm or more and 10 8.5 Sponge-like cylindrical rollers with a diameter of less than Ωcm.

[0296] Furthermore, the secondary transfer roller 22 is pressed and disposed on the back roller 25 across the intermediate transfer belt 15, and the secondary transfer roller 22 is grounded to form a secondary transfer bias between itself and the back roller 25, thereby transferring the toner image onto the paper K conveyed to the secondary transfer section 20.

[0297] Furthermore, on the downstream side of the secondary transfer section 20 of the intermediate transfer belt 15, the intermediate transfer belt cleaner 35, which removes residual toner or paper dust from the intermediate transfer belt 15 after the secondary transfer and cleans the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15, is configured to be able to contact or separate freely relative to the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0298] In addition, the intermediate transfer belt 15, the primary transfer section 10 (primary transfer roller 16) and the secondary transfer section 20 (secondary transfer roller 22) are equivalent to an example of a transfer mechanism.

[0299] On the other hand, a reference sensor (originating position sensor) 42 is provided upstream of the yellow image forming unit 1Y to generate a reference signal that serves as a reference for acquiring the image forming timing of each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. This reference sensor 42 identifies a mark provided on the back side of the intermediate transfer belt 15 and generates a reference signal. Each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K is configured to start image forming according to a command from the control unit 40 based on the identification of this reference signal.

[0300] Furthermore, an image density sensor 43 for image quality adjustment is provided on the downstream side of the black image forming unit 1K.

[0301] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the conveying mechanism for conveying paper K includes a paper receiving section 50 for receiving paper K, a paper feed roller 51 for taking out and conveying paper K accumulated in the paper receiving section 50 at a preset time, a conveying roller 52 for conveying paper K delivered by the paper feed roller 51, a conveying guide 53 for conveying paper K conveyed by the conveying roller 52 into the secondary transfer section 20, a conveyor belt 55 for conveying paper K that has been conveyed after secondary transfer by the secondary transfer roller 22 to the fixing device 60, and a fixing inlet guide 56 for guiding paper K to the fixing device 60.

[0302] Next, the basic imaging process of the image forming apparatus involved in the present invention will be described.

[0303] In the image forming apparatus of the present invention, image data output from an image reading device (not shown) or a personal computer (PC) (not shown) is processed by an image processing device (not shown) and then image processing is performed by image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K.

[0304] In the image processing device, various image processing techniques are applied to the input reflectivity data, including shadow correction, position offset correction, brightness / color space conversion, gamma correction, border removal or color editing, and motion editing. The image data after image processing is converted into grayscale data of the four colors Y, M, C, and K, and then output to the laser exposure unit 13.

[0305] In the laser exposure unit 13, based on the input pigment grayscale data, for example, an exposure beam Bm emitted from a semiconductor laser is used to illuminate each photoreceptor 11 of the image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. In each photoreceptor 11 of the image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K, after the surface is charged by the charger 12, the surface is scanned and exposed by the laser exposure unit 13 to form an electrostatic latent image. The formed electrostatic latent image is developed by each of the image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K into tonal images of Y, M, C, and K respectively.

[0306] The toner image formed on the photoreceptors 11 of the image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 15 in the primary transfer section 10 where each photoreceptor 11 contacts the intermediate transfer belt 15. More specifically, in the primary transfer section 10, the toner image is sequentially superimposed onto the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15 by applying a voltage of polarity (negative polarity) and opposite polarity (primary transfer bias voltage) of the toner to the substrate of the intermediate transfer belt 15 through the primary transfer roller 16, thus performing a primary transfer.

[0307] After the toner image is sequentially transferred onto the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15, the intermediate transfer belt 15 moves and the toner image is conveyed to the secondary transfer section 20. When the toner image is conveyed to the secondary transfer section 20, the paper feed roller 51 rotates in the conveying mechanism in accordance with the timing of the toner image's arrival at the secondary transfer section 20, and paper K of the desired size is supplied from the paper receiving section 50. The paper K supplied by the paper feed roller 51 is conveyed by the conveying roller 52 and reaches the secondary transfer section 20 via the conveying guide 53. Before reaching the secondary transfer section 20, the paper K is temporarily stopped, and a position alignment roller (not shown) rotates in accordance with the movement timing of the intermediate transfer belt 15 holding the toner image, thereby aligning the position of the paper K with the position of the toner image.

[0308] In the secondary transfer section 20, the secondary transfer roller 22 is pressurized by the back roller 25 via the intermediate transfer belt 15. At this time, the paper K, which is being fed according to a timer, is sandwiched between the intermediate transfer belt 15 and the secondary transfer roller 22. At this time, if a voltage of the same polarity (negative polarity) of the toner is applied from the power supply roller 26 (secondary transfer bias voltage), a transfer electric field is formed between the secondary transfer roller 22 and the back roller 25. Moreover, the unfixed toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is electrostatically transferred to the paper K in the secondary transfer section 20, which is pressurized by the secondary transfer roller 22 and the back roller 25.

[0309] Then, the paper K with the electrostatically transferred toner image is directly conveyed in a state where it has been peeled off from the intermediate transfer belt 15 by the secondary transfer roller 22, and conveyed to the conveyor belt 55 located downstream of the secondary transfer roller 22 in the paper conveying direction. The conveyor belt 55 conveys the paper K to the fixing device 60 at an optimal conveying speed corresponding to the fixing device 60. The unfixed toner image on the paper K conveyed to the fixing device 60 is fixed by the fixing device 60 through heat and pressure, thereby fixing it onto the paper K. Then, the paper K with the fixed image is conveyed to the paper discharge receiving section (not shown) provided in the discharge section of the image forming apparatus.

[0310] On the other hand, after the transfer of paper K is completed, the residual toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transported to the cleaning section along with the rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 15, and is removed from the intermediate transfer belt 15 by the cleaning back roller 34 and the intermediate transfer belt cleaner 35.

[0311] The above describes the implementation method, but it is not intended to be limited to the above implementation method. Various modifications, alterations, and improvements are possible.

[0312] Example

[0313] The present invention will be further illustrated below with examples. However, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0314] <Example 1>

[0315] (Formation of the substrate layer)

[0316] A dispersion (hereinafter referred to as "CNT 5% dispersion") was prepared by mixing N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and carbon nanotubes (manufactured by SHOWA DENKO KK) at a mass ratio of 95:5. The obtained dispersion was subjected to high-pressure dispersion treatment using a high-pressure homogenizer (manufactured by SANMARU MACHINERY CO.,LTD. HC3) (conditions: liquid temperature 45°C, 50 MPa, valve pass count (passes: 5 times).

[0317] Next, relative to 100 parts by mass of the dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 528 parts by mass of polyamic acid solution (UNITIKALTD., TX-HMM (polyimide paint), solid content: 18% by mass, solvent: NMP) were added to prepare a precursor liquid. The obtained precursor liquid was stirred under vacuum for 15 minutes at a liquid temperature of 30°C using a planetary mixer (AICOH ACM-5LVT).

[0318] Through the above, a coating liquid for forming a substrate layer was obtained, which contains 5% by mass of aggregates (i.e., specific aggregates) of carbon nanotubes entangled together in a solid composition.

[0319] Next, the obtained substrate layer forming coating liquid is applied to a cylindrical mold to form a coating film, and the coating film is calcined at 380°C, thereby forming a seamless strip-shaped substrate layer with a film thickness of 80 μm.

[0320] (Formation of the elastic layer)

[0321] A dispersion (hereinafter also referred to as "CNT 15% dispersion") was prepared by mixing butyl acetate and carbon nanotubes (manufactured by SHOWA DENKO KK) at a mass ratio of 85:15. The obtained dispersion was subjected to high-pressure dispersion treatment using a high-pressure homogenizer (manufactured by SANMARU MACHINERY CO.,LTD. HC3) (conditions: liquid temperature 45°C, 50 MPa, valve pass times: 3 times).

[0322] Next, relative to 50 parts by mass of the dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 50 parts by mass of silicone rubber stock solution (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. X-34-1053, solid content concentration: 60% by mass, solvent: butyl acetate) were added to prepare a precursor liquid. The obtained precursor liquid was stirred under vacuum for 10 minutes at a liquid temperature of 30°C using a planetary stirrer (AICOH ACM-5LVT).

[0323] Through the above, a coating liquid for forming an elastic layer was obtained, which contains 20% by mass of aggregates (i.e., specific aggregates) of carbon nanotubes entangled together in a solid composition.

[0324] Next, the obtained elastic layer forming coating liquid is applied to the substrate layer to form a coating film, and the coating film is heated at 100°C for 30 minutes to form an elastic layer with a film thickness of 450 μm.

[0325] (Form of the anti-stick layer)

[0326] A 35μm thick PFA tubing (made by Gunze Limited) was wrapped around an elastic layer and heated at 200°C for 120 minutes to form an anti-stick layer made of fluoropolymer tubing.

[0327] After the above processes, the fixing tape is obtained.

[0328] <Examples 2-5>

[0329] The method for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer was changed to the following method, except that the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0330] That is, in the formation of the substrate layer in Example 1, the number of passes of the high-pressure dispersion treatment of the CNT 5% dispersion and the stirring time of the planetary mixer on the precursor liquid were appropriately adjusted in the following manner. Otherwise, the substrate layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0331] Example 2: High-pressure dispersion of 5% CNT dispersion was performed in 3 passes, and the precursor liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer for 40 minutes.

[0332] Example 3: High-pressure dispersion of 5% CNT dispersion with 8 passes and planetary mixer stirring time of 10 minutes for the precursor liquid.

[0333] Example 4: High-pressure dispersion of 5% CNT dispersion with 5 passes and planetary mixer stirring time of 15 minutes for the precursor liquid.

[0334] Example 5: High-pressure dispersion of 5% CNT dispersion with 5 passes and planetary mixer stirring time of 15 minutes for the precursor liquid.

[0335] Furthermore, in the formation of the elastic layer in Example 1, the number of passes of the high-pressure dispersion treatment of the CNT 15% dispersion and the stirring time of the planetary mixer on the precursor liquid were appropriately adjusted in the following manner. Otherwise, the elastic layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0336] Example 2: High-pressure dispersion of 15% CNT dispersion was performed in 3 passes, and the precursor liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer for 10 minutes.

[0337] Example 3: High-pressure dispersion of 15% CNT dispersion was performed in 3 passes, and the precursor liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer for 10 minutes.

[0338] Example 4: High-pressure dispersion of 15% CNT dispersion was performed twice, and the precursor liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer for 60 minutes.

[0339] Example 5: High-pressure dispersion of 15% CNT dispersion was performed in 3 passes, and the precursor liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer for 8 minutes.

[0340] <Examples 6-10>

[0341] The method for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer was changed to the following method, except that the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0342] That is, in the formation of the substrate layer in Example 1, the amount of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment and the amount of polyamic acid solution were appropriately adjusted in the following manner. Otherwise, the substrate layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0343] Example 6: 1 part by weight of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 280 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution.

[0344] Example 7: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 250 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution.

[0345] Example 8: 1 part by weight of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 280 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution.

[0346] Example 9: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 111.1 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution.

[0347] Example 10: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 98.5 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution.

[0348] Furthermore, in the formation of the elastic layer in Example 1, the amount of CNT 15% dispersion and the amount of silicone rubber stock solution after high-pressure dispersion treatment were appropriately adjusted in the following manner. Otherwise, the elastic layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0349] Example 6: 0.4 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment and 99.6 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution.

[0350] Example 7: 0.4 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment and 99.6 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution.

[0351] Example 8: 50 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment and 50 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution.

[0352] Example 9: 72.8 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment and 27.3 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution.

[0353] Example 10: 76.58 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, and 23.4 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution.

[0354] <Examples 11-17>

[0355] The method for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer was changed to the following method, except that the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0356] That is, in the formation of the substrate layer in Example 1, a precursor liquid was prepared by appropriately adjusting the amount of CNT 5% dispersion and polyamic acid solution after high-pressure dispersion treatment. Then, after stirring the precursor liquid in a planetary mixer, the CNT 5% dispersion used in Example 1 was added in the following amounts. Furthermore, a coating liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer at a liquid temperature of 30°C and atmospheric pressure for 1 minute. Otherwise, the substrate layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0357] Example 11: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 33.3 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion.

[0358] Example 12: 33.3 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 100 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion.

[0359] Example 13: 66.6 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 66.6 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion.

[0360] Example 14: 126.6 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 6.6 parts by weight of CNT 5% dispersion.

[0361] Example 15: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 33.3 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion.

[0362] Example 16: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 33.3 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion.

[0363] Example 17: 100 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 704 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution, and 33.3 parts by weight of 5% CNT dispersion.

[0364] Furthermore, in the formation of the elastic layer in Example 1, a precursor liquid was prepared by appropriately adjusting the amount of CNT 15% dispersion and silicone rubber stock solution after high-pressure dispersion treatment. Then, after stirring the precursor liquid in a planetary mixer, the CNT 15% dispersion used in Example 1 was added in the following amounts. A coating liquid was stirred in a planetary mixer at a liquid temperature of 30°C and atmospheric pressure for 1 minute. Otherwise, the elastic layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0365] Example 11: 33.15 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.48 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0366] Example 12: 33.15 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.48 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0367] Example 13: 33.15 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.48 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0368] Example 14: 33.15 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.48 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0369] Example 15: 1.48 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 33.15 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0370] Example 16: 21.2 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.42 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0371] Example 17: 43.45 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion after high-pressure dispersion treatment, 65 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution, and 1.51 parts by weight of CNT 15% dispersion.

[0372] <Comparative Example 1>

[0373] The methods for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer were changed to the following methods, and the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0374] (Formation of the substrate layer)

[0375] That is, using the non-high-pressure dispersion (CNT 5% dispersion) used in the formation of the substrate layer in Example 1, 250 parts by weight of polyamic acid solution (UNITIKA LTD., TX-HMM (polyimide paint), solids concentration: 18% by weight, solvent: NMP) were added to 100 parts by weight of the dispersion, and the mixture was stirred using a planetary mixer (conditions: liquid temperature 30°C, 1 minute) to obtain the coating solution for forming the substrate layer. Using this coating solution for forming the substrate layer, the substrate layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1, except that...

[0376] (Formation of the elastic layer)

[0377] That is, using the dispersion (CNT 15% dispersion) used in the formation of the elastic layer in Example 1 without high-pressure dispersion treatment, 50 parts by weight of silicone rubber stock solution (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. X-34-1053, solid content concentration: 60% by weight, solvent: butyl acetate) were added to 50 parts by weight of the dispersion, and the mixture was prepared by mixing with a planetary mixer (conditions: liquid temperature 30°C, 1 minute) to obtain the coating solution for forming the elastic layer. Using this coating solution for forming the elastic layer, except that the elastic layer was formed on the substrate layer in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0378] <Comparative Example 2>

[0379] The methods for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer were changed to the following methods, and the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0380] (Formation of the substrate layer)

[0381] A polyamic acid solution (manufactured by UNITIKA LTD.: TX-HMM (polyimide varnish)) was used directly as a coating liquid for forming the substrate layer. Otherwise, the substrate layer was formed in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0382] (Formation of the elastic layer)

[0383] The silicone rubber stock solution (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. manufactured X-34-1053) was used directly as the coating liquid for forming the elastic layer. Otherwise, the elastic layer was formed on the substrate layer in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0384] <Comparative Example 3>

[0385] The methods for forming the substrate layer and the elastic layer were changed to the following methods, and the fixing tape was made in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0386] (Formation of the substrate layer)

[0387] Using the high-pressure dispersion obtained in the formation of the substrate layer of Example 1, a precursor liquid was prepared by adding 250 parts by mass of polyamic acid solution (UNITIKA LTD.: TX-HMM (polyimide paint), solids concentration: 18% by mass, solvent: NMP) to 100 parts by mass of the high-pressure dispersion. The obtained precursor liquid was stirred under vacuum for 70 minutes using a planetary mixer (AICOH ACM-5LVT) at a liquid temperature of 30°C.

[0388] Through the above, a coating liquid for forming a substrate layer was obtained, which contains 10% by mass of aggregates (i.e., specific aggregates) of carbon nanotubes entangled together in a solid composition.

[0389] Next, the obtained substrate layer forming coating liquid is applied to a cylindrical mold to form a coating film, and the coating film is calcined at 380°C, thereby forming a seamless strip-shaped substrate layer with a film thickness of 80 μm.

[0390] (Formation of the elastic layer)

[0391] Specifically, a precursor liquid was prepared by adding 60 parts by mass of silicone rubber stock solution (Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. X-34-1053, solid content concentration: 60% by mass, solvent: butyl acetate) to 50 parts by mass of the dispersion obtained in the formation of the elastic layer of Example 1. The precursor liquid was stirred under vacuum for 80 minutes at a liquid temperature of 30°C using a planetary mixer (AICOH ACM-5LVT).

[0392] Through the above, a coating liquid for forming an elastic layer was obtained, which contains 20% by mass of aggregates (i.e., specific aggregates) of carbon nanotubes entangled together in a solid composition.

[0393] Next, the obtained elastic layer forming coating liquid is applied to the substrate layer to form a coating film, and the coating film is heated at 100°C for 30 minutes to form an elastic layer with a film thickness of 450 μm.

[0394] <Evaluation of the durability of the fixing tape>

[0395] The fixing belts obtained in each example are installed in the fixing device of an image forming apparatus (FUJI XEROX: Versant 3100i Pres s) that employs a fixing method in which the heat source is located inside the fixing belt and heat from the heat source is transferred to the toning agent image via the fixing belt.

[0396] Using this image forming apparatus, Cin50% midtone images were continuously output on A4 paper (FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp. P paper) at an output speed of 100ppm (100 sheets per minute) (printing speed).

[0397] Every time 100,000 sheets are printed, the presence of image defects caused by wrinkles in the release layer is checked, and the number of sheets output until the fixing belt breaks and stops moving (the device stops) is checked to evaluate the durability (i.e., lifespan) of the fixing belt.

[0398] Here, wrinkles in the anti-stick layer occur due to the gradual increase in sliding resistance between the belt and the drive component (i.e., due to increased torque), which is one of the main causes of belt breakage. Therefore, it can be said that the slower the image defects caused by wrinkles in the anti-stick layer occur, the better the durability of the fixing belt, even if printing continues.

[0399] The durability of the fixing tape was evaluated based on the following criteria.

[0400] -Image shortcomings-

[0401] A(◎): No image defects occurred when 300,000 copies were printed.

[0402] B(〇): No image defects were found when 200,000 copies were printed, but image defects were found when 300,000 copies were printed.

[0403] C(△): No image defects were found when 100,000 copies were printed, but image defects were found when 200,000 copies were printed.

[0404] D(×): Image defects were confirmed when 100,000 copies were printed.

[0405] -with fracture-

[0406] A(◎): Up to 300,000 frames, no breakage of the fixing belt was observed (the process did not stop).

[0407] B(〇): When the number of images is more than 200,000 but less than 300,000, the breakage of the fixing belt is observed.

[0408] C(△): When the number of images is more than 100,000 but less than 200,000, the breakage of the fixing band is observed.

[0409] D(×): When the number of images is less than 100,000, a break in the fixing belt is observed.

[0410]

[0411] As can be seen from the above results, the fixing tape of this embodiment has higher durability and longer lifespan compared with the fixing tape of the comparative example.

[0412] The embodiments of the present invention described above are provided for illustrative purposes. Furthermore, these embodiments do not encompass the entirety of the invention, nor do they limit the invention to the disclosed methods. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations will be readily understood. These embodiments were chosen and described to most readily explain the principles and applications of the invention. Thus, those skilled in the art can understand the invention through various modifications that are assumed to be optimized for specific uses of various embodiments. The scope of the invention is defined by the foregoing claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fixing tape, comprising sequentially a substrate layer containing resin, an elastic layer containing an elastic material, and an anti-stick layer, wherein, The substrate layer and the elastic layer each further comprise a plurality of aggregates of entangled fibrous carbon atoms. The maximum diameter of the aggregate in the substrate layer is less than 50% of the film thickness of the substrate layer. The maximum diameter of the aggregate in the elastic layer is less than 15% of the thickness of the elastic layer film.

2. The fixing tape according to claim 1, wherein, The substrate layer and the elastic layer each further comprise fibrous carbon that is not entangled with each other.

3. The fixing tape according to claim 2, wherein, The content A of the aggregates in the substrate layer and the elastic layer and the content B of the non-entangled fibrous carbon, respectively, satisfy the relationship A≥B on a mass basis.

4. The fixing tape according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The ratio (A / (A+B)) of the content A of the aggregates in the substrate layer and the elastic layer to the total content A of the aggregates and the content B of the non-entangled fibrous carbon is 0.50 or more and 0.95 or less, respectively, on a mass basis.

5. The fixing tape according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The content A1 of the aggregate contained in the substrate layer is more than 0.1% by mass and less than 20% by mass relative to the total mass of the substrate layer.

6. The fixing tape according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The content A2 of the aggregate contained in the elastic layer is more than 0.1% by mass and less than 40% by mass relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

7. The fixing tape according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The content A1 of the aggregate contained in the substrate layer and the content A2 of the aggregate contained in the elastic layer satisfy the relationship A1≤A2 on a mass basis.

8. The fixing tape according to claim 7, wherein, The content of the aggregate A1 is 0.1% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the substrate layer, and the content of the aggregate A2 is 0.1% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less relative to the total mass of the elastic layer.

9. The fixing tape according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The fibrous carbon is carbon nanotubes.

10. A fixing device comprising a first rotating body and a second rotating body disposed in contact with the outer surface of the first rotating body, wherein, At least one of the first rotating body and the second rotating body is a fixing belt as described in any one of claims 1 to 9. A recording medium with a tonal image formed on its surface is inserted through the contact portion between the first rotating body and the second rotating body to fix the tonal image.

11. An image forming apparatus comprising: Like a retainer; A charging mechanism that charges the surface of the image holder. An electrostatic latent image forming mechanism forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the already charged image holder; The developing mechanism develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the image holder using a developer containing a toner to form a toner image; The transfer mechanism transfers the toner image onto the surface of the recording medium; and A fixing mechanism for fixing the toner image onto the recording medium, and comprising the fixing device as described in claim 10.

Images