Edge strips for workpieces, especially furniture parts

Abstract

The invention discloses an edge strip, in particular an edge strip for a furniture component, comprising at least one functional layer for fixing the edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, wherein the functional layer comprises an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane. The invention also discloses a method for producing an edge strip, fixing the edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, using the edge strip and using a relief pattern to reduce sticking of the edge strip.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an edge strip, in particular for a furniture component, comprising a functional layer for fixing the edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component. Background Art

[0002] Edge strips are fixed to at least one side of a workpiece such as a furniture component to provide a visually attractive edge. Edge strips may also be referred to as edge bands or edge finishes. Workpieces to which edge strips are applied include furniture components, boards for furniture manufacturing, boards for interior construction and ceiling panels, and typically comprise engineered wood materials, for example engineered wood panels such as particleboard or fiberboard. However, the workpiece may also comprise other materials and composite materials.

[0003] Several methods are known for fixing edge strips to workpieces. For example, hot melt can be applied to the edge strip and / or the workpiece during the process of fixing the edge strip to the workpiece. Fixing using this method usually results in a visible joint caused by the hot melt. In practice, this usually results in an unsightly joint.

[0004] In order to avoid the problem of unsightly hot melt joints, it is proposed to fix the edge strip to the furniture component without using hot melt at all. Therefore, EP 1 163 864 B1 discloses an adhesive-free connection between an edge strip made of plastic and a furniture component, that is, the edge strip is directly attached to the furniture component without adhesive. For this purpose, the surface of the edge strip is melted by laser radiation, thereby realizing a laser welding connection of the adhesive-free edge strip to the furniture panel. This should be advantageous in the following case: when the edge strip is composed of plastic layers of different hardness, the thickness of the layer with greater hardness of the edge strip is more than twice the thickness of the layer with less hardness, wherein only a part of the surface of the edge strip is welded to the furniture component. By not using hot melt adhesive, the hot melt adhesive joint described will be avoided and hot melt adhesive will be saved at the same time. However, in practice, not using hot melt adhesive at all will lead to unsatisfactory fastness of the edge strip to the furniture panel.

[0005] In order to overcome the problem of unsatisfactory fastening of edge strips to workpieces such as furniture components, different approaches using various adhesive materials have been used.

[0006] EP 1 852 242 A1 describes a thermoplastic edge strip, wherein the edge strip is coextruded with a hot melt layer. WO 2009 / 026977 A1 describes an edge strip comprising a molten layer containing both polar and non-polar parts in the molecular structure. However, none of these documents show an improvement in fastening properties.

[0007] Another problem that may arise when fastening the edge strip to the workpiece is that the edge strip moves when it is pressed against the workpiece, in particular on the narrow side of the workpiece. This can make it difficult to accurately position the edge strip to the workpiece. When the edge strip is pressed against the workpiece, the layer (molten layer or hot melt layer) of the adhesive material (hot melt) can expand out of the joint and protrude from the joint. In addition, when any protrusions or overlapping material are removed from the edge strip fixed to the workpiece in order to have a smooth transition from the edge strip to the workpiece, the adhesive material can produce an unsightly line. Moreover, the heat generated during the removal of protrusions or overlapping material from the edge strip, which is usually done by milling, can lead to plastic deformation of the adhesive material, which in turn can lead to misalignment of the edge strip on the workpiece. Typically, these problems are related to each other and lead to unsightly joints or even scrap. These problems are usually referred to as smearing.

[0008] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an edge strip which can be fastened to a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, without unsightly joints. Preferably, the edge strip should be well fastened to the workpiece, in particular a furniture component. Advantageously, the edge strip can be fastened to the workpiece, in particular a furniture component, with a reduced amount of tailing.

[0009] Other and further objects, features and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description. Summary of the invention

[0010] Some or all of the above objects are achieved by an edge strip, in particular for a furniture component, comprising at least one functional layer for fixing the edge strip to a workpiece, in particular a narrow side of a furniture component, wherein the functional layer contains an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0011] It has been found that edge strips comprising a functional layer containing aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane can be well fixed to workpieces, in particular furniture parts, while reducing tailing. It has been found that when only one type of thermoplastic polyurethane is used, the edge strip cannot be well bonded to the workpiece, in particular furniture parts, or tailing is unacceptable. The advantage of thermoplastic polyurethanes is that they are well bonded to materials commonly used for furniture parts. In addition, since both polymers contained in the functional layer are thermoplastic polyurethanes, they are compatible with each other. Therefore, a compatibilizer for the two polymers can be omitted.

[0012] The invention furthermore relates to a method for producing an edge strip according to the invention, comprising forming, in particular extruding, at least one functional layer according to the invention.

[0013] The invention also relates to a method for fixing an edge strip according to the invention to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, wherein the functional layer is softened using at least one of laser, microwaves, ultrasound, infrared and hot air.

[0014] The invention also relates to a method for fixing a strip, in particular a strip made of the material described herein, to the narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, comprising applying an edge strip according to the invention between the narrow side of the workpiece and the strip, wherein the edge strip consists of at least one functional layer, in particular one functional layer.

[0015] The invention also relates to the use of an edge strip according to the invention, wherein the edge strip consisting of at least one functional layer, in particular one functional layer, as an adhesive layer is particularly used to fix a strip, in particular a strip made of the material described herein, to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component.

[0016] Finally, the present invention relates to the use of a relief pattern on the surface of a functional layer of an edge strip to reduce the blocking of the edge strip, in particular to reduce the blocking of the edge strip when rolling up the edge strip, the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern being in particular 10 μm to 100 μm, preferably Rz being 10 μm to 70 μm, more preferably Rz being 10 μm to 40 μm, and even more preferably Rz being 15 μm to 30 μm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis of a functional layer not comprising any nucleating agent is shown.

[0018] Figure 2 Shown is a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis of a functional layer comprising 0.4 wt % of nucleating agent based on the total mass of the functional layer.

[0019] Figure 3 Shown is a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis of a functional layer comprising 0.6 wt % of nucleating agent based on the total mass of the functional layer.

[0020] Figure 4 Shown is a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis of a functional layer comprising 0.6 wt % of a different nucleating agent, based on the total mass of the functional layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The edge strip according to the invention comprises a functional layer containing aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane and aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0022] Advantageously, the functional layer comprises an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane as a physical mixture.

[0023] Polyurethane is manufactured by reacting a polyisocyanate compound with a polyol compound. For thermoplastic polyurethane, the isocyanate compound and the polyol compound are preferably difunctional. There are various polyisocyanates and polyol compounds. The polyisocyanate compound may contain an aromatic portion. The polyisocyanate may also contain an aliphatic portion. Similarly, the polyol compound may contain an aromatic portion. The polyol compound may also contain an aliphatic portion. When the polyisocyanate compound and the polyol compound react, and either of them contains an aromatic portion, the resulting polyurethane contains an aromatic portion. The polyurethane containing an aromatic portion is referred to as an aromatic polyurethane. The thermoplastic polyurethane containing an aromatic portion is referred to as an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0024] When a polyisocyanate compound and a polyol compound react, wherein both contain an aliphatic portion and neither contain an aromatic portion, the resulting polyurethane contains an aliphatic portion and does not contain an aromatic portion. A polyurethane containing an aliphatic portion and not containing an aromatic portion is referred to as an aliphatic polyurethane. A thermoplastic polyurethane containing an aliphatic portion and not containing an aromatic portion is referred to as an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0025] Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims and will be explained hereinafter.

[0026] Different polyurethanes can be used as aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes.

[0027] Different polyisocyanates can be used to make the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane, for example, the polyisocyanate is selected from the group consisting of ethylene diisocyanate, 1,4-tetramethylene diisocyanate, 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, and mixtures thereof.

[0028] Different polyisocyanates can be used to make aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes, for example, polyisocyanates selected from the group consisting of 2,4-toluene diisocyanate, 2,6-toluene diisocyanate, 2,2'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, 2,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, 4,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate, naphthylene 1,5-diisocyanate and mixtures thereof. A preferred polyisocyanate for making aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes is 4,4'-methylene diphenyl diisocyanate.

[0029] Different polyols can be used for aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes and aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes, such as polyether polyols or polyester polyols. The functionality of exemplary polyols can be 2. The weight average molecular weight of exemplary polyols can further be 2000 g / mol to 15000 g / mol. Preferably, the weight average molecular weight is determined by gel permeation chromatography using a cross-linked polystyrene column, THF as an eluent, and polystyrene standards. An RI detector can be used as a detector.

[0030] For aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes, preference is given to using polyester polyols. For aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes, preference is given to using polyether polyols, for example polyether polyols based on butanediol.

[0031] Aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane can have various melt flow index. Advantageously, the melt flow index of aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 2g / 10min to 100g / 10min, preferably 5g / 10min to 30g / 10min, more preferably 5g / 10min to 25g / 10min, even more preferably 5g / 10min to 20g / 10min, most preferably 10g / 10min to 15g / 10min.

[0032] The melt flow index of aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04, in particular ASTM D 1238-04b, at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

[0033] The hardness of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D2240 is 70 to 110 Shore A, preferably 75 to 105 Shore A, more preferably 80 to 100 Shore A. In particular, the hardness can be determined according to ASTM D2240-15e1.

[0034] The tensile strength of aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D412 can be 200kg / cm 2 Up to 400kg / cm 2 , preferably 225kg / cm 2 Up to 375kg / cm 2 , more preferably 250kg / cm 2 Up to 350kg / cm 2 In particular, the tensile strength may be determined according to ASTM D412-16.

[0035] The elongation at break of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D412 may be 450% to 750%, preferably 500% to 700%, more preferably 550% to 650%. In particular, the elongation at break may be determined according to ASTM D412-16.

[0036] Suitable aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes are available, for example, from BASF SE, Kempro Kimyasal Maddeler, Covestro AG, Lubrizol Corporation, or similar suppliers of aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethanes.

[0037] Advantageously, the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane has a melt flow index of 2 to 100 g / 10 min, preferably 40 to 100 g / 10 min, more preferably 40 to 90 g / 10 min, even more preferably 45 to 85 g / 10 min, most preferably 50 to 80 g / 10 min.

[0038] The melt flow index of aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04, in particular ASTM D 1238-04b, at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

[0039] By having aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane with melt flow index in the above range, the fastening strength of edge strip to workpiece, in particular furniture component, can be adjusted and / or improved. In addition, the tailing can be adjusted.

[0040] The hardness of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D2240 may be 50 to 90 Shore A, preferably 55 to 85 Shore A, and more preferably 60 to 80 Shore A. In particular, the hardness may be determined according to ASTM D2240-15e1.

[0041] The tensile strength of aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D 412 can be 30 kg / cm 2 Up to 90kg / cm 2 , preferably 40kg / cm 2 Up to 80kg / cm 2 , more preferably 50kg / cm 2 Up to 70kg / cm 2 In particular, the tensile strength may be determined according to ASTM D412-16.

[0042] Suitable aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes are available, for example, from BASF SE, Kempro Kimyasal Maddeler, Covestro AG, Lubrizol Corporation, or similar suppliers of aromatic thermoplastic polyurethanes.

[0043] The elongation at break of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane determined according to ASTM D412 may be 450% to 750%, preferably 500% to 700%, more preferably 550% to 650%. In particular, the elongation at break may be determined according to ASTM D412-16.

[0044] The functional layer can contain different amounts of thermoplastic polyurethane. Advantageously, based on the total mass of the functional layer, the amount of aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane contained in the functional layer is 10% to 90% by weight, preferably 50% to 90% by weight, more preferably 65% ​​to 90% by weight, even more preferably 70% to 85% by weight, most preferably 75% to 85% by weight.

[0045] Advantageously, the functional layer contains an amount of aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane of 1% to 90% by weight, preferably 1% to 50% by weight, more preferably 1% to 20% by weight, even more preferably 3% to 17% by weight, most preferably 5% to 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the functional layer. With these amounts of thermoplastic polyurethane, edge strips that adhere well to workpieces, in particular furniture parts, can be obtained.

[0046] Preferably, the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane together constitute more than 50 wt%, more preferably more than 70 wt%, even more preferably more than 80 wt%, most preferably more than 90 wt% of the total mass of the functional layer.

[0047] The functional layer may also contain other components. In particular, the functional layer may contain fillers. Fillers can reduce the tailing of the edge strip. Advantageously, the functional layer contains fillers in an amount of 1% to 30% by weight, preferably 1% to 20% by weight, more preferably 2% to 17% by weight, even more preferably 3% to 15% by weight, most preferably 5% to 13% by weight, based on the total mass of the functional layer. With the above-mentioned amounts of fillers, tailing can be reduced while the edge strip still adheres well to the workpiece, in particular the furniture component.

[0048] Various materials can be used as fillers. Advantageously, the filler is an inorganic filler, preferably a mineral filler or a mineral-based filler. More preferably, the filler is selected from the group consisting of talc, calcium carbonate, dolomite, silica, mica, kaolin, diatomaceous earth, glass, barite, wollastonite, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, halloysite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof. Most preferably, the filler is talc. Inorganic fillers such as the above-mentioned fillers, and in particular mineral fillers, are strong and inert, so that they do not degrade themselves or other components of the functional layer due to the heat generated during the fixing of the edge strip to the workpiece, in particular the furniture component.

[0049] In addition, the functional layer may also contain a nucleating agent. The nucleating agent may help improve the crystallization of the functional layer. In particular, the nucleating agent may help increase the crystallization temperature. In this way, since harder layers generally tend to exhibit reduced tailing, tailing may be improved. In addition, production speed may be increased by introducing a nucleating agent.

[0050] When the functional layer comprises a nucleating agent, the functional layer advantageously contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.05 to 10 wt. %, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt. %, more preferably 0.1 to 3 wt. %, even more preferably 0.1 to 1 wt. %, most preferably 0.5 to 0.9 wt. %, based on the total mass of the functional layer. It has been found that when the nucleating agent is present in these amounts in the functional layer, tailing can be reduced while the edge strip still adheres well to the workpiece, in particular the furniture component. In addition, the edge strip can be produced at good production speeds.

[0051] Various nucleating agents can be used in the present invention. Advantageously, the nucleating agent is selected from carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms, silicic acid, alkali metal salts of cyanuric acid, sorbitol derivatives such as di(benzylidene)sorbitol, 1,3-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol, 2,4-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol, phosphonium salts, triphenylphosphine, tributylphosphine, trimethylphosphine, dimethylphenylphosphine, methyldiphenylphosphine, tri(2-ethylhexyl)phosphine, tetrabutylphosphonium hexafluorophosphate, tetrabutylphosphonium hexafluorophosphate, tetrabutylphosphine ... phosphonium hydrogen sulfate, tetrabutylphenylammonium phosphonate, pyridinium salts, tritylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate, pyrrolidinium salts, 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bromide, sulfonium salts, triphenylsulfonium tetrafluoroborate, sulfonates, sodium octylsulfonate, phosphonates, phosphonic acid, phosphonates, phosphonates, phosphinic acid, phosphinates, phosphinates, phosphinates, phosphinamides, phosphinamides, phosphonates, tetrabutylphenylammonium phosphonate and mixtures thereof.

[0052] Preferably, the nucleating agent is selected from carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms, alkali metal salts of cyanuric acid, sorbitol derivatives such as di(benzylidene)sorbitol, 1,3-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol, 2,4-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol, phosphonium salts, triphenylphosphine, tributylphosphine, trimethylphosphine, dimethylphenylphosphine, methyldiphenylphosphine, tri(2-ethylhexyl)phosphine, tetrabutylphosphonium hexafluorophosphate, tetrabutylsulfonium Phosphonium salts, tetrabutylphenyl ammonium phosphonate, pyridinium salts, trityl pyridine tetrafluoroborate salts, pyrrolidinium salts, 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bromide, sulfonium salts, triphenyl tetrafluoroborate sulfonium salts, sulfonates / salts, sodium octyl sulfonate, phosphonates / salts, phosphonic acid, phosphonates, phosphonates, phosphinic acid, phosphinic esters, phosphinates, phosphinamides, phosphinamides, phosphonates / salts, tetrabutylphenyl ammonium phosphonate and mixtures thereof. The alkali metal salt of the carboxylic acid with 10 to 40 carbon atoms is preferably the sodium salt of the carboxylic acid with 10 to 40 carbon atoms. It has been found that by the above-mentioned nucleating agent, crystallization can be improved, thereby reducing tailing. More preferably, the nucleating agent is an alkali metal salt, particularly an alkali metal salt of the carboxylic acid with 10 to 40 carbon atoms, more particularly a sodium salt. It has been found that alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms are well compatible with the other ingredients in the functional layer. It has also been found that alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms are effective in improving the crystallization of the functional layer, thereby reducing tailing and increasing production speed. Even better results are obtained when the carboxylic acid in the alkali metal salt, especially the sodium salt, has 15 to 35 carbon atoms, more preferably 20 to 35 carbon atoms, most preferably 25 to 35 carbon atoms. The carboxylic acid having 10 to 40, preferably 15 to 35, more preferably 25 to 35 carbon atoms in the alkali metal salt is preferably a non-cyclic carboxylic acid, more preferably a straight chain carboxylic acid.

[0053] The functional layer may also contain various additives. In particular, the functional layer may contain one or more additives. Advantageously, the functional layer contains additives selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, UV absorbers, chain extenders, pigments, dyes, anti-slip agents, anti-blocking agents, flow modifiers, hindered amine light stabilizers, and mixtures thereof.

[0054] For example, antioxidants are available from MPI Chemie, BASF SE, Clariant AG, or similar suppliers of plastic additives. Antioxidants can help improve the thermal stability of the functional layer.

[0055] For example, UV absorbers can be obtained from MPI Chemie, BASF SE, Solvay SA, or similar suppliers of UV absorbers.UV absorbers can help improve the UV stability of the functional layer.

[0056] For example, chain extenders can be obtained from Vertellus Holdings LLC, BASF SE, Qingdao Sciendoc Chemical Co., Ltd., or similar suppliers of chain extenders. Chain extenders can help improve tailing of the functional layer.

[0057] For example, pigments and dyes can be obtained from BASF SE, Altana AG, Merck KGaA, Clariant AG or similar suppliers of pigments and dyes. By means of pigments and dyes, the color of the functional layer can be adjusted. The pigments and dyes can be in different forms. Preferably, the pigments and dyes can be dissolved or dispersed in an aliphatic and / or aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, more preferably dissolved or dispersed in an aliphatic and / or aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0058] For example, anti-slip agents may be obtained from Kafrit Industries Ltd, A. Schulman Inc., Ampacet Corporation, or similar suppliers of anti-slip agents.Anti-slip agents may help increase manufacturing speed.

[0059] For example, antiblock agents may be obtained from Kafrit Industries Ltd, Ampacet Corporation, Croda International plc, or similar suppliers of antiblock agents.Antiblock agents may help prevent undesirable, premature adhesion of the functional layer to other surfaces.

[0060] For example, flow modifiers can be obtained from Vertellus Holdings LLC, BASF SE, Flow Polymers LLC, or similar suppliers of flow modifiers. Flow modifiers can help, for example, to adjust the flow properties of the functional layer during processing.

[0061] For example, hindered amine light stabilizers can be obtained from BASF SE, Clariant AG, Azelis SA, or similar suppliers of hindered amine light stabilizers.Hindered amine light stabilizers can help improve the light stability of the functional layer.

[0062] The functional layer may contain additives in different amounts. Advantageously, the total amount of additives in the functional layer is 0.1% to 15% by weight, preferably 0.1% to 10% by weight, based on the total mass of the functional layer. The additives may be contained in the functional layer in an amount of 0.1% to 5% by weight, preferably 0.1% to 3% by weight, based on the total mass of the functional layer. Additives other than pigments or dyes may be contained in the functional layer in an amount of 0.1% to 1% by weight, most preferably, based on the total mass of the functional layer.

[0063] Advantageously, the functional layer contains an energy-absorbing additive which can activate the functional layer and thus facilitate the fixing of the edge strip to a workpiece, in particular a furniture component.

[0064] Depending on the type of energy used during the fixing of the edge strip to the workpiece, in particular the furniture component, different energy absorbing additives can be used. Examples of energy absorbing additives are heat absorbing additives, radiation absorbing additives (such as microwave absorbing additives) and light absorbing additives. Preferably, the functional layer comprises light and / or radiation absorbing additives. More preferably, the functional layer comprises laser absorbing particles. Laser absorbing particles are particularly useful when laser activation is used to apply the edge strip.

[0065] Advantageously, the functional layer contains the energy absorbing additive in an amount of 0.1 to 5 wt %, preferably 0.1 to 3 wt %, more preferably 0.1 to 1 wt %, based on the total mass of the functional layer.

[0066] The aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane, aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, filler, nucleating agent, additive and energy absorbing additive may each be referred to as a component of the functional layer. Preferably, all components of the functional layer add up to 100 wt % based on the weight of the functional layer.

[0067] The functional layer may also have at least one structured surface. Advantageously, the surface of the functional layer at least partially has a relief pattern. The relief pattern is preferably located on the surface to be used for fixing the edge strip to a workpiece, in particular a furniture component. Advantageously, the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is from 10 μm to 100 μm, preferably from 10 μm to 70 μm, more preferably from 10 μm to 40 μm, even more preferably from 15 μm to 30 μm. It has been found that by means of a relief pattern, in particular a relief pattern with a surface roughness in the above range, the adhesion of the edge strip can be reduced, in particular also when rolling up the edge strip, more particularly also when rolling up the edge strip after production. In this way, the use of anti-adhesion or anti-slip agents can be avoided. In addition, the edge strip can be rolled up at a higher temperature, so that the production speed is increased. The surface roughness Rz is preferably determined according to DIN EN ISO 4287, more preferably according to DIN EN ISO 4287:2010-07.

[0068] The edge strip comprises at least one functional layer. The edge strip may also comprise more than two functional layers. When the edge strip comprises more than two functional layers, these functional layers may be the same or different. The two or more functional layers of the edge strip may be arranged differently. For example, two functional layers may be arranged on top of each other so that only one of the functional layers is in direct contact with the workpiece. In this way, the functional layer in direct contact with the workpiece may be optimized to bond the edge strip to the workpiece, while the other functional layer may be used for other purposes, such as decorative purposes or as a bonding layer between a functional layer and another layer such as a decorative layer. The two functional layers may also be arranged side by side. This is advantageous, for example, for adapting the edge strip to uneven workpieces. More than three functional layers may be arranged on top of each other, side by side, or in a combination of these two ways. Three functional layers side by side may be particularly advantageous for lightweight panels or honeycomb panels. When the edge strip comprises more than two functional layers, one or more functional layers that will be in direct contact with the workpiece, in particular a furniture component, preferably have a relief pattern as described herein.

[0069] The edge strip may also consist of at least one functional layer. In this case, the edge strip may consist of more than one functional layer, for example, two, three or four functional layers, but preferably consists of one functional layer.

[0070] The edge strip may further include a structural layer connected to the functional layer. The structural layer may provide mechanical strength to the edge strip. The structural layer may also provide a decorative effect to the edge strip.

[0071] The structural layer can be directly connected to the functional layer. In this way, the edge strip can be manufactured by coextrusion. The structural layer can also be indirectly connected to the functional layer. For example, an adhesive layer or a bonding layer or a primer can be located between the structural layer and the functional layer. As mentioned above, the bonding layer can be formed by an additional functional layer. Preferably, the primer is located between the structural layer and the functional layer.

[0072] The structural layer can be made of various materials. The structural layer can be made of paper, cardboard, facing, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material. Continuous pressure laminate edges are sometimes also called melamine edges and can be obtained from specialized stores. The structural layer is advantageously made of thermoplastic material, in particular thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic material can be a thermoplastic material made from fossil resources or a thermoplastic material made from bio-based substances or a thermoplastic material made from both fossil resources and bio-based substances, such as a thermoplastic copolymer or a composite material. Preferably, the thermoplastic material can be processed using an extruder. In particular, the melting point of the thermoplastic material is below 400°C. The thermoplastic material is preferably selected from the group consisting of wood plastic composites, poly(ethylene), poly(ethylene) produced from bio-based materials, poly(propylene), poly(propylene) produced from bio-based materials, poly(lactic acid), starch, thermoplastic starch, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymers, poly(vinyl chloride), poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(ethylene terephthalate), olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyesters, styrene block copolymers such as styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-ethylene-propylene-styrene copolymers, poly(methyl methacrylate-co-butadiene-co-styrene), thermoplastic copolyamides and mixtures thereof. The above materials are usually used for the manufacture of edge strips and are therefore commercially available. Polymers made from bio-based resources or materials are, for example, polymers made from renewable resources, such as poly(ethylene) made from ethanol derived from sugar cane.

[0073] The functional layer can be connected to the structural layer by coextrusion. This connection mode is particularly useful for large-scale manufacturing. The functional layer can also be connected to the structural layer by injection molding. This connection mode is particularly useful for small-scale manufacturing. When the functional layer is directly connected to the structural layer, it is preferably connected to the structural layer by coextrusion or by injection molding.

[0074] The functional layer may also be applied to the structural layer in an additional step after the structural layer is manufactured. This provides more flexibility in the manufacturing process. Preferably, the functional layer may be applied to the structural layer in an additional step after the structural layer is manufactured by post-coating, post-extrusion, hot coating or injection molding. More preferably, the functional layer is applied by post-extrusion.

[0075] The functional layer is preferably produced by extrusion, in particular by post-extrusion.

[0076] The thickness of the functional layer is advantageously 0.05 mm to 5 mm, preferably 0.05 mm to 2 mm, more preferably 0.05 mm to 1 mm, most preferably 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm or 0.1 mm to 0.25 mm. The thickness of the structural layer is advantageously 0.1 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.1 mm to 8 mm, more preferably 0.3 mm to 4 mm.

[0077] The width of the edge strip is advantageously 5 to 120 mm, preferably 5 to 80 mm, more preferably 5 to 40 mm, even more preferably 5 to 25 mm, most preferably 18 to 28 mm. According to another embodiment, the width of the edge strip is 5 to 120 mm, preferably 5 to 80 mm, more preferably 12 to 65 mm.

[0078] When manufacturing the edge strips, multiple edge strips can be manufactured simultaneously. In this case, preferably, in the first step, edge strips with a width of 5 mm to 800 mm, more preferably 5 mm to 500 mm, most preferably 8 mm to 420 mm, or edge strips with a width of preferably 10 mm to 800 mm, more preferably 10 mm to 500 mm, most preferably 20 mm to 420 mm are manufactured, and the edge strips are cut to the above widths in a subsequent step.

[0079] According to a preferred embodiment, based on the total mass of the functional layer, the functional layer comprises:

[0080] aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane, the amount of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 65% to 90% by weight, preferably 70% to 85% by weight, more preferably 75% to 85% by weight,

[0081] Aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, the amount of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 1 wt % to 20 wt %, preferably 3 wt % to 17 wt %, more preferably 5 wt % to 15 wt %,

[0082] Optionally, a filler in an amount of 2 to 17 wt %, preferably 3 to 15 wt %, more preferably 5 to 13 wt %,

[0083] a nucleating agent, the amount of the nucleating agent is 0.1 wt % to 3 wt %, preferably 0.1 wt % to 1 wt %, more preferably 0.5 wt % to 0.9 wt %,

[0084] and optional additives, the total amount of which is 0.1 wt % to 10 wt %,

[0085] The total amount of each component here is 100% by weight.

[0086] It has been found that edge strips having functional layers with a combination of components comprised within these ranges adhere well to workpieces, in particular furniture components, and can be fixed to workpieces, in particular furniture components, with reduced drag.

[0087] According to another preferred embodiment, the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is from 10 g / 10 min to 15 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04, in particular ASTM D 1238-04b, at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg, and the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is from 50 g / 10 min to 80 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04, in particular ASTM D 1238-04b, at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

[0088] The edge strip according to the invention can be fastened to different workpieces. Examples of workpieces are furniture parts, boards for producing furniture, boards for interior construction and ceiling panels.

[0089] Another object of the invention is a method for producing an edge strip according to the invention, comprising forming at least one functional layer according to the invention. Preferably, the method for producing an edge strip according to the invention comprises extruding at least one functional layer according to the invention.

[0090] In the method according to the present invention, the structural layer as defined herein can be coextruded with the functional layer according to the present invention. In this way, a direct connection between the functional layer and the structural layer can be achieved. Alternatively, in the method according to the present invention, the functional layer according to the present invention can also be applied to the structural layer according to the present invention. The structural layer is preferably prefabricated. Preferably, the functional layer is applied to the structural layer, particularly the prefabricated structural layer, using the method as defined herein. More preferably, in the additional step after manufacturing the structural layer, the functional layer is applied to the structural layer by post-coating, post-extrusion, hot coating or injection molding. Even more preferably, primer is applied to the structural layer, particularly the prefabricated structural layer, and then the functional layer is applied to the primer located on the structural layer, particularly the primer located on the structural layer by post-extrusion. However, both the structural layer and the functional layer can also be prefabricated. Then, the prefabricated structural layer and the prefabricated functional layer can be connected by lamination. Before lamination, primer can be applied to the prefabricated structural layer and / or the prefabricated functional layer. Most preferably, the functional layer is applied to the structural layer, in particular to a primer located on the structural layer, by post-extrusion in an additional step after the production of the structural layer.

[0091] In the method according to the invention, a relief pattern can be applied to the surface of the functional layer. Preferably, the relief pattern is applied by embossing. Advantageously, the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 100 μm, preferably Rz is 10 μm to 70 μm, more preferably Rz is 10 μm to 40 μm, even more preferably Rz is 15 μm to 30 μm. The surface roughness Rz is preferably determined according to DIN EN ISO 4287, more preferably according to DIN EN ISO 4287:2010-07.

[0092] Another object of the invention is a method for fixing an edge strip according to the invention to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, wherein the functional layer is activated using at least one of laser, microwave, ultrasound, infrared and hot air. Preferably, the functional layer is activated using laser or hot air.

[0093] When laser is used to soften the functional layer, the laser power can be 5 J / cm 2 Up to 50J / cm 2 , preferably 10J / cm 2 Up to 30J / cm 2 , more preferably 15 J / cm 2 Up to 25J / cm 2 The laser power can depend in particular on the color of the functional layer. For functional layers with a dark color, lower laser powers are required.

[0094] When hot air is used to soften the functional layer, the hot air is supplied at a temperature of 300° C. to 650° C. The hot air is preferably supplied at a pressure of 2 bar to 6 bar.

[0095] When the machine is used to fix the edge strip to a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, the machine preferably uses a pressure of 1 bar to 6 bar, preferably a pressure of 2 bar to 6 bar, to press the edge strip to the workpiece. The machine can be operated in particular at a line speed of 3 m / min to 80 m / min, preferably 3 m / min to 30 m / min, more preferably 10 m / min to 20 m / min.

[0096] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a method for fixing a strip, in particular a strip made of the material described herein for a structural layer, to the narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component, comprising applying an edge strip according to the invention between the narrow side of the workpiece and the strip, wherein the edge strip consists of at least one functional layer, in particular one functional layer.

[0097] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to the use of an edge strip according to the invention, wherein the edge strip consisting of at least one functional layer, in particular one functional layer, as an adhesive layer is particularly used to fix a strip, in particular a strip made of a material as described herein for a structural layer, to a narrow side of a workpiece, in particular a furniture component.

[0098] According to the above two aspects, the use of an edge strip consisting of at least one functional layer is similar to a double-sided tape. The edge strip may consist of more than one functional layer, for example two, three or four functional layers. Preferably, the edge strip consists of one functional layer. Therefore, the details about the functional layer for the edge strip according to the present invention described above apply to these aspects of the invention. According to these aspects, the strip fixed to the narrow side of the workpiece corresponds to or preferably consists of a structural layer as described herein. Preferably, the functional layer is activated using at least one of laser, microwave, ultrasound, infrared and hot air, more preferably using laser or hot air.

[0099] Another object of the present invention is the use of a relief pattern on the surface of a functional layer of an edge strip to reduce the sticking of the edge strip, in particular when rolling up the edge strip, the relief pattern having a surface roughness Rz of in particular 10 μm to 100 μm, preferably Rz of 10 μm to 70 μm, more preferably Rz of 10 μm to 40 μm, even more preferably Rz of 15 μm to 30 μm. More specifically, the relief pattern is used to reduce sticking when rolling up the edge strip after the production of the edge strip. The surface roughness Rz is preferably determined according to DIN EN ISO 4287, more preferably according to DIN EN ISO 4287:2010-07.

[0100] Example

[0101] Material:

[0102] TPU1: aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane, with a hardness of about 90 Shore A according to ASTM D2240-15 and a density of about 1.2 g / cm at room temperature according to ASTM D792-13 3 , the tensile strength according to ASTM D412-16 is about 300kg / cm 2 , the elongation at break according to ASTM D412-16 is about 600%, and the melt flow index according to ASTM D1238-04 at 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg is 10 to 15 g / 10 min.

[0103] TPU2: Aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, with a hardness of about 70 Shore A according to ASTM D2240-15 and a density of about 1.19 g / cm at room temperature according to ASTM D792-13 3, the tensile strength according to ASTM D412-16 is about 60kg / cm 2 , the elongation at break according to ASTM D412-16 is about 600%, and the melt flow index according to ASTM D1238-04 at 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg is 50 to 80 g / 10 min.

[0104] TPU3: aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane, with a hardness of about 90 Shore A according to ASTM D2240-15 and a density of about 1.2 g / cm at room temperature according to ASTM D792-13 3 , the tensile strength according to ASTM D412-16 is about 200kg / cm 2 , the elongation at break according to ASTM D412-16 is about 600%, and the melt flow index according to ASTM D1238-04 at 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg is 35 to 55 g / 10 min.

[0105] TPU4: Aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, hardness of about 90 Shore A according to ASTM D2240-15, density of about 1.17 g / cm at 20°C according to ASTM D792-13 3 , the tensile strength at break according to ASTM D412-16 is about 20 MPa, the elongation at break according to ASTM D412-16 is about 550%, and the melt flow index at 170° C. using a 2.16 kg weight according to ISO 1133-1:2012-03 is 4 to 30 g / 10 min.

[0106] Filler: Talc

[0107] Nuc: Nucleating agent; sodium octadecanoate

[0108] Nuc2: Alternative nucleating agent; 1,2,3-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]nonanol sorbitol

[0109] LP: Laser pigment; Basic copper phosphate (II)

[0110] Add: Additives including antioxidants, chain extenders, pigments, and UV stabilizers

[0111] method:

[0112] To investigate the effect of the nucleating agent, three functional layers FL1 to FL3 with a thickness of 0.2 mm were prepared using the following formulation containing various amounts of TPU1, TPU2 and Nuc. Another functional layer FL4 was prepared, which had the same composition as FL3, except that 1,2,3-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]nonanoyl sorbitol (Nuc2) was used instead of sodium octadecanoate (Nuc).

[0113] Table 1: Composition of fabricated functional layers FL1 to FL3

[0114]

[0115] Explanation of Table 1: a - Pigments only.

[0116] Samples were taken in the functional layers FL1 to FL3 and FL4 and studied by DSC using a Q20 DSC from TA instruments at a heating rate of 10°C / min in the range of 25°C to 200°C (25°C to 180°C for FL4). The corresponding DSC curves for FL1 to FL3 are shown in Figures 1 to 3 The corresponding DSC curve of FL4 is shown in Figure 4 In these figures, exothermic peaks appear. Figure 1 It can be seen that the crystallization temperature of FL1 (without nucleating agent) is 70.33°C. When 0.4 wt% of nucleating agent (FL2) is added, the crystallization temperature increases to 71.13°C. Furthermore, when 0.6 wt% of nucleating agent (FL3) is added, the crystallization temperature increases to 73.54°C. Finally, when 0.6 wt% of a different nucleating agent Nuc2 is added, the crystallization temperature increases to 76.08°C. Therefore, the addition of nucleating agent allows crystallization at a higher temperature, which helps to increase the production speed.

[0117] Application is carried out by subsequent post-use extrusion, producing an edge strip comprising the functional layer and the structural layer.

[0118] A single screw extruder with a L / D of 25 / 1 and equipped with a die that produces a sheet 0.2 mm thick and 23 mm wide is used to apply the functional layer to a 2 mm thick sheet made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer for use as a structural layer (referred to as post-extrusion in the examples). Of course, other widths, such as 8 mm to 420 mm, can also be manufactured and can be cut if necessary.

[0119] Edge strips with a structural layer made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer and a functional layer according to the following Tables 2a and 2b were produced by post-extruding the functional layer onto an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer sheet. Sodium octadecanoate (Nuc) was used as a nucleating agent, since 1,2,3-trideoxy-4,6:5,7-bis-O-[(4-propylphenyl)methylene]nonanol sorbitol (Nuc2) exhibited an undesirable clarifying effect.

[0120] Table 2a: The produced edge strips each had a structural layer made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer. The amounts of compounds of the functional layer are in % by weight.

[0121]

[0122] Explanation for Table 2a: Cpd - compound; a - Pigments only; b - Pigments only; c - Pigments only; d - Pigments only; e - Pigments only; f - Pigments, chain extenders, antioxidants; g - Pigments, chain extenders, antioxidants, UV stabilizers; h - Pigments, chain extenders, antioxidants, UV stabilizers; i -Comparative example.

[0123] Table 2b: The produced edge strips each had a structural layer made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer. The amounts of compounds of the functional layer are in % by weight.

[0124]

[0125] Explanation for Table 2b: Cpd - compound; a - Pigments and antioxidants; b - Pigments, chain extenders and antioxidants; c -Comparative example.

[0126] During the production process, the edge strip passes under an embossing roller to emboss the relief pattern into the surface of the functional layer. The surface roughness Rz of the relief, measured according to DIN EN ISO 4287:2010-07, is 20 μm to 25 μm. The resulting edge strip is then rolled up for storage. The rolling up of the edge strip is completed only after a short cooling time. No blocking is observed within the edge strip roll.

[0127] The edge strips 1 to 7 and 10 to 11 were then fixed to the MFC and MDF panels with a thickness of 18 mm by activating the functional layer with a laser and by heating the functional layer with hot air at 450°C and 4 bar. The edge strips were pneumatically pressed onto the narrow sides of the MFC or MDF panels with the activated or heated functional layer using a machine set pressure of 2 bar and a line speed of 18 m / min. The edge strips were then fixed to the narrow sides of the MFC or MDF panels using a machine set pressure of 2 bar and a line speed of 18 m / min. The edge strips were then fixed to the narrow sides of the MFC or MDF panels using a machine set pressure of 25 J / cm 2 Laser activation was performed with a laser power of 1000 nm. A Homag PROFI KAL330 / 9 / A3 / L (2013) machine was used to fix the edge strip to the sheet by laser activation. A Homag EDGETEQ S-380OPTIMAT KDF 650C (2019) machine was used to fix the edge strip to the sheet by heating. It should be noted that a machine setting pressure of 2 bar is a common machine setting pressure for sheets with a thickness of 16 mm to 36 mm.

[0128] The edge strip 8 was fixed to the MFC and MDF boards with a thickness of 18 mm by heating the functional layer with hot air at 450°C and 4 bar and pneumatically pressing the edge strip with the heated functional layer to the narrow side of the MFC or MDF board with a machine setting pressure of 2 bar at a line speed of 18 m / min. A Homag EDGETEQ S-380OPTIMAT KDF 650C (2019) machine was used. It should be noted that a machine setting pressure of 2 bar is a common machine setting pressure for boards with a thickness of 16 to 36 mm.

[0129] Edge strip 9 was fixed to MFC and MDF boards with a thickness of 18 mm by activating the functional layer with laser. The same machine and the same settings as for edge strips 1 to 7 and 10 to 11 were used for fixing by laser activation.

[0130] Edge strip 12 was fixed to an MFC board with a thickness of 18 mm by activating the functional layer with a laser and by heating the functional layer with hot air at 450° C. and 4 bar. The same machine and the same settings were used as for edge strips 1 to 7 and 10 to 11 for fixing by laser activation and heating, respectively. Edge strip 12 was also fixed to an MDF board with a thickness of 18 mm by activating the functional layer with a laser. The same machine and the same settings were used as for edge strips 1 to 7 and 10 to 11 for fixing by laser activation.

[0131] The average peel strength and other properties of edge strips 1 to 8 are summarized in Table 3 below. The average peel strength and other properties of edge strips 9 to 12 are summarized in Table 4 below.

[0132] For all edge strips mounted to the panels, the edge strip protrudes beyond the narrow sides of the panel on both sides. The protrusions are removed by milling so that the surface of the panel merges with the edge strip without a step.

[0133] The behavior of the edge strips during fixing was monitored. Movement of the edge strips during fixing was undesirable and was considered to be part of the tailing. Protrusion of the functional layer from the joint in the vertical direction was considered to be another part of the tailing. The creation of lines or misalignment of the edge strips during milling of the protruding part of the edge strip on the narrow side of the sheet was considered to be another part of the tailing. The intensity of the tailing as well as the average peel strength of the edge strip from the sheet and other properties of the functional layer of the individual edge strips are summarized in Table 3 for edge strips 1 to 8 and in Table 4 for edge strips 9 to 12. No significant differences in the average peel strength were found for edge strips 1 to 7 fixed by laser activation or by heating with hot air.

[0134] Table 3: Properties of the edge strip fixed to the panel and its functional layer.

[0135]

[0136] Explanation of Table 3: a - average peel strength, determined according to standard DIN EN 1464:2010-06; b - visual assessment of the tailing from 1 (worst) to 5 (best) according to the movement of the edge strip when fastened to the MDF or MFC board, whether the functional layer protrudes in the vertical direction beyond the joint and whether the joint produces lines when milled (the reported values ​​are for the edge strip fixed by heating with hot air); c - the hardness of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ISO 868:2003-03; d - melt flow index of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04; e - the melting temperature of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ISO 11357-3:2018; f - the tensile strength of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ASTM D412-16; g - Edge strips fixed to the board using laser activation and hot air heating.

[0137] As can be seen from Table 3, the addition of an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane increases the average peel strength (edge ​​strips 1 to 4). However, at the same time, the tailing is more severe when an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is added. Despite the presence of an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, the tailing can also be improved when a nucleating agent is added (edge ​​strip 5) and further additions of fillers as well as chain extenders and antioxidants (edge ​​strips 6 and 7). Edge strips 6 and 7 also show long-term thermal stability. Edge strip 8 also shows good UV resistance. It is clear from edge strips 1 to 7 that the functional layer is very versatile since the same composition can be used for both laser and hot air applications.

[0138] Table 4: Properties of the edge strip fixed to the panel and its functional layer.

[0139]

[0140] Explanation for Table 4: a - the average peel strength of the edge strip fixed using laser activation determined in accordance with standard DIN EN 1464:2010-06; b - the average peel strength of the edge strips fixed by hot air heating determined in accordance with standard DIN EN 1464:2010-06; c - visual assessment of the tailing from 1 (worst) to 5 (best) according to the movement of the edge strip when fastened to the MDF or MFC board, whether the functional layer protrudes in the vertical direction beyond the joint and whether the joint produces lines when milled (the reported values ​​are for the edge strip fixed by heating with hot air); d - the hardness of the functional layer of the edge strip determined in accordance with standard ISO 868:2003-03; e - melt flow index of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04; f - the melting temperature of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ISO 11357-3:2018; g - the tensile strength of the functional layer of the edge strip determined according to standard ASTM D412-16; h -Undetermined.

[0141] As can be seen from Table 4, the functional layer (edge ​​strip 9) comprising a combination of an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane having a higher melt flow index and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane having a lower melt flow index did not exhibit acceptable peel strength when fixed to MFC or MDF boards using laser activation. Edge strips 10 and 11 showed satisfactory peel strength, with edge strip 11 showing very high peel strength to MDF boards. In addition, edge strip 12 also shows that when a functional layer using only aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is fixed to MFC or MDF boards, its peel strength is unacceptable.

Claims

1. An edge strip for a furniture component, the edge strip comprising at least one functional layer for fixing the edge strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, wherein the functional layer comprises an aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and an aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane, wherein the amount of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane contained in the functional layer is 65 wt % to 90 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer, and the amount of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane contained in the functional layer is 1 wt % to 20 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer, And wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 5 g / 10 min to 25 g / 10 min, and the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 40 g / 10 min to 90 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index is determined according to standard ASTM D1238-04b at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

2. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 5 g / 10 min to 20 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04b at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

3. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 10 g / 10 min to 15 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04b at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

4. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 45 g / 10 min to 85 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04b at a temperature of 150° C. using a weight of 2.16 kg.

5. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is 50 g / 10 min to 80 g / 10 min, wherein the melt flow index of the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is determined according to standard ASTM D 1238-04b at a temperature of 150°C using a weight of 2.16 kg. 6 . The edge strip according to claim 1 , wherein the functional layer contains the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane in an amount of 70 wt % to 85 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 7 . The edge strip according to claim 1 , wherein the functional layer contains the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane in an amount of 75% by weight to 85% by weight based on the total mass of the functional layer. 8 . The edge strip according to claim 1 , wherein the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is contained in the functional layer in an amount of 3% by weight to 17% by weight based on the total mass of the functional layer. 9 . The edge strip according to claim 1 , wherein the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane is contained in the functional layer in an amount of 5% by weight to 15% by weight based on the total mass of the functional layer.

10. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane together constitute more than 70 weight percent of the total mass of the functional layer.

11. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane together constitute more than 80 weight percent of the total mass of the functional layer.

12. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the aliphatic thermoplastic polyurethane and the aromatic thermoplastic polyurethane together constitute more than 90 weight percent of the total mass of the functional layer.

13. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein the functional layer comprises a filler. 14 . The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the functional layer contains the filler in an amount of 1 wt % to 30 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 15 . The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the functional layer contains the filler in an amount of 1 wt % to 20 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 16 . The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the functional layer contains the filler in an amount of 2 wt % to 17 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 17 . The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the functional layer contains the filler in an amount of 3 wt % to 15 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 18 . The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the functional layer contains the filler in an amount of 5 wt % to 13 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. The edge strip according to claim 13 , wherein the filler is an inorganic filler.

20. The edge strip according to claim 19, wherein the filler is a mineral filler or a mineral-based filler.

21. The edge strip of claim 19, wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of talc, calcium carbonate, dolomite, silica, mica, kaolin, diatomaceous earth, glass, barite, wollastonite, calcium sulfate, barium sulfate, halloysite, zinc oxide, and mixtures thereof.

22. The edge strip according to claim 19, wherein the filler is talc.

23. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the functional layer comprises a nucleating agent. 24 . The edge strip according to claim 23 , wherein the functional layer contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.05 wt % to 10 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 25 . The edge strip according to claim 23 , wherein the functional layer contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.05 wt % to 5 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 26 . The edge strip according to claim 23 , wherein the functional layer contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 3 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 27 . The edge strip according to claim 23 , wherein the functional layer contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 1 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer. 28 . The edge strip according to claim 23 , wherein the functional layer contains the nucleating agent in an amount of 0.5 wt % to 0.9 wt % based on the total mass of the functional layer.

29. The edge strip according to claim 23, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms, silicic acid, cyanuric acid, sorbitol derivatives, phosphonium salts, triphenylphosphine, tributylphosphine, trimethylphosphine, dimethylphenylphosphine, methyldiphenylphosphine, tri(2-ethylhexyl)phosphine, pyridinium salts, pyrrolidinium salts, sulfonium salts, sulfonates, phosphonic acid, phosphonates, phosphonates, phosphinic acid, phosphinic esters, phosphinic acid salts, phosphinamides, phosphinamides and mixtures thereof.

30. The edge strip according to claim 29, wherein the sorbitol derivative is selected from di(benzylidene)sorbitol, 1,3-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol and 2,4-di(p-hydroxy)benzylidene sorbitol, and / or the phosphonium salt is selected from tetrabutylphosphonium hexafluorophosphate, tetrabutylphenylammonium phosphonate and tetrabutylphosphonium hydrogen sulfate, and / or the pyridinium salt is tritylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate, and / or the pyrrolidinium salt is 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bromide, and / or the sulfonium salt is triphenylsulfonium tetrafluoroborate, and / or the sulfonate / salt is sodium octylsulfonate.

31. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 15 to 35 carbon atoms.

32. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 20 to 35 carbon atoms.

33. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids having 25 to 35 carbon atoms.

34. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium salts of carboxylic acids having 10 to 40 carbon atoms.

35. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium salts of carboxylic acids having 15 to 35 carbon atoms.

36. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium salts of carboxylic acids having 20 to 35 carbon atoms.

37. The edge strip of claim 29, wherein the nucleating agent is selected from the group consisting of sodium salts of carboxylic acids having 25 to 35 carbon atoms.

38. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the functional layer comprises an additive selected from the group consisting of antioxidants, UV absorbers, chain extenders, pigments, dyes, anti-slip agents, anti-blocking agents, flow modifiers, hindered amine light stabilizers, and mixtures thereof.

39. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the functional layer comprises an energy absorbing additive.

40. The edge strip according to claim 39, wherein the functional layer comprises light and / or radiation absorbing additives.

41. The edge strip of claim 39, wherein the functional layer comprises laser absorbing particles.

42. The edge strip according to claim 1, wherein a surface of the functional layer at least partially has a relief pattern.

43. The edge strip according to claim 42, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 100 μm.

44. The edge strip according to claim 42, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 70 μm.

45. The edge strip according to claim 42, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 40 μm.

46. ​​The edge strip according to claim 42, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 15 μm to 30 μm.

47. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the edge strip comprises two or more functional layers.

48. The edge strip of claim 1, wherein the edge strip comprises a structural layer connected to the functional layer.

49. An edge strip according to claim 48, wherein the structural layer is made of paper, cardboard, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material.

50. The edge strip of claim 49, wherein the structural layer is made of a thermoplastic material.

51. The edge strip of claim 49, wherein the structural layer is made of a thermoplastic polymer.

52. The edge strip of claim 49, wherein the structural layer is made of a thermoplastic material made from fossil resources or a thermoplastic material made from bio-based substances or a thermoplastic material made from both fossil resources and bio-based substances.

53. The edge strip of claim 49, wherein the structural layer is made of a thermoplastic material selected from the group consisting of wood plastic composites, poly(ethylene), poly(propylene), poly(lactic acid), starch, poly(vinyl chloride), poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(ethylene terephthalate), olefin-based thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyesters, styrene block copolymers, poly(methyl methacrylate-butadiene-styrene), thermoplastic copolyamides, and mixtures thereof.

54. The edge strip of claim 53, wherein the poly(ethylene) and / or poly(propylene) is produced from a bio-based substance.

55. The edge strip of claim 53, wherein the styrene block copolymer is selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers, acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymers, styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene copolymers, styrene-ethylene-ethylene-propylene-styrene copolymers, and mixtures thereof.

56. The edge strip of claim 48, wherein the functional layer is connected to the structural layer by coextrusion or injection molding.

57. An edge strip according to claim 48, wherein the functional layer is applied to the structural layer in an additional step after manufacturing the structural layer.

58. The edge strip according to claim 57, wherein the functional layer is applied by post-coating, post-extrusion, hot coating or injection molding.

59. A method for producing an edge strip according to claim 1, comprising extruding at least one functional layer as defined in any one of claims 1 to 46.

60. The method according to claim 59, wherein a structural layer made of paper, cardboard, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material is coextruded with the functional layer.

61. A method for manufacturing an edge strip according to claim 48, comprising forming at least one functional layer as defined in claim 48, wherein the functional layer is applied to a structural layer made of paper, cardboard, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material by post-coating, post-extrusion, hot coating or injection molding.

62. A method according to claim 59 or 60, wherein a relief pattern is applied to the surface of the functional layer.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 100 μm.

64. The method of claim 62, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 70 μm.

65. The method of claim 62, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 10 μm to 40 μm.

66. The method of claim 62, wherein the surface roughness Rz of the relief pattern is 15 μm to 30 μm.

67. The method of claim 62, wherein the relief pattern is applied to the surface of the functional layer by embossing.

68. A method for fixing an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 58 to a narrow side of a workpiece, wherein the functional layer is activated using at least one of laser, microwaves, ultrasound, infrared and hot air.

69. A method for fixing a strip to the narrow side of a workpiece, comprising applying an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 46 between the narrow side of the workpiece and the strip, wherein the edge strip consists of at least one functional layer, wherein the functional layer is activated using at least one of laser, microwave, ultrasound, infrared and hot air.

70. A method for fixing a strip to the narrow side of a workpiece, comprising applying an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 46 between the narrow side of the workpiece and the strip, wherein the edge strip consists of a functional layer, wherein the functional layer is activated using at least one of laser, microwave, ultrasound, infrared and hot air.

71. A method according to claim 69 or 70, wherein the strip is made of paper, cardboard, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material.

72. Use of an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 46 for fixing a strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, wherein the edge strip consists of at least one functional layer as an adhesive layer.

73. Use of an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 46 for fixing a strip to a narrow side of a workpiece, wherein the edge strip consists of a functional layer as an adhesive layer.

74. Use of an edge strip according to any one of claims 1 to 46, wherein the edge strip consisting of at least one functional layer as an adhesive layer is used to fix a strip made of paper, cardboard, continuous pressure laminate or thermoplastic material to the narrow side of a workpiece.

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