Adhesive layer for flexographic printing plate mounting tape

Abstract

The present invention discloses an article, which includes a foam layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface. The article includes a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles. The article also includes a first primer layer, the first primer layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer binder. The first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer. Components comprising such articles are also disclosed herein.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 176,822, filed on April 19, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to pressure sensitive adhesive compositions for foam pad tapes used to bond articles such as printing plates for flexographic printing presses and methods of making and using such tapes. Background Art

[0004] Flexographic printing plate mounting tapes are used to mount flexographic printing plates to plate cylinders in flexographic printing presses. New, more advantageous mounting tapes for such uses are always needed. Summary of the invention

[0005] Disclosed herein is an article comprising a foam layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface. The article comprises a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles. The article also comprises a first primer layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer binder. The first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0006] Such articles may further include a second primer layer and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the second primer layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0007] Such articles may further include a first release liner positioned on the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.Such articles or assemblies may further include a second release liner positioned on the second surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0008] Such an article may also include a first skin layer positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the first primer layer. Such an article or component may also include a second skin layer positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second primer layer.

[0009] Disclosed herein is an assembly comprising a flexographic printing plate and a mounting tape, the mounting tape comprising: a foam layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface; a first primer layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer binder; a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles. The first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is attached to the flexographic printing plate.

[0010] Such an assembly may also include a second primer layer and a second pressure sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the second primer layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the first surface of the second pressure sensitive adhesive layer.

[0011] Such an assembly may also include a plate tube, wherein the plate tube is attached to the mounting tape via the second surface of the second pressure sensitive adhesive layer.

[0012] Such articles and components may have the first primer layer, the second primer layer, or both, wherein the first primer layer, the second primer layer, or both independently have the following thickness: at least 5 micrometers (μm), 10 μm, or 15 μm; less than 200 μm, 100 μm, or 75 μm; or a combination thereof.

[0013] Such articles and components may have the first primer layer, the second primer layer, or both, wherein the first primer layer, the second primer layer, or both independently have the following thickness: at least 1 micrometer (μm), 3μm or 5μm; less than 50μm, 25μm or 8μm; or a combination thereof.

[0014] Such articles and components may have the foam layer, excluding any skin layer, having a thickness of: at least 200 μm, 300 μm, or 400 μm; less than 2500 μm, 2000 μm, or 1500 μm; or a combination thereof.

[0015] In such articles and components, the nanoparticles in the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer may include silicon dioxide and optionally other suitable inorganic particles. In such articles and components, the organic surface coating may provide active binding sites comprising epoxy groups. In such articles and components, the organic surface coating may provide active binding sites derived from epoxy silanes selected from the group consisting of 2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, 2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltriethoxysilane, (3-glycidoxypropyl)trimethoxysilane, (3-glycidoxypropyl)triethoxysilane, and any combination or mixture thereof.

[0016] In such articles and components, the organic surface coating provides active binding sites comprising epoxy groups present on the particle surface in an amount equivalent to at least 3 mol%, at least 5 mol%, at least 10 mol%, or at least 25 mol% of the total molar amount of functional groups on the surface. In such articles and components, the organic surface coating provides active binding sites comprising epoxy groups present on the particle surface in an amount not exceeding 150 mol% of the total molar amount of functional groups on the surface.

[0017] In some such articles and components, the ratio of silane to silica particles may be selected so that 1 nm 2 The surface area of ​​the silica particles is modified by 0.1 to 5 molecules of an organic silane compound.

[0018] In such articles and assemblies, the thermoplastic polymer binder is a thermoplastic polymer binder of a vinyl type polymer.

[0019] In such articles and assemblies, the first adhesive layer may have a higher solvent resistance than the second adhesive layer. In such articles and assemblies, the first adhesive layer may have a higher solvent resistance than the second adhesive layer, as measured according to the Rub Resistance Test.

[0020] In such articles and assemblies, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, or both independently include acrylate, acrylic acid, or a combination thereof.

[0021] In such articles and assemblies, the first primer layer may be laminated to the foam layer using heat and pressure.

[0022] The above summary of the present disclosure is not intended to describe every embodiment of the present invention. The details of one or more embodiments of the present invention are also listed in the following specific embodiments. Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments and claims.

[0023] In this application:

[0024] In this article, the term "comprising" and its variant forms do not have a limiting meaning where these terms appear in the specification and claims. Such terms will be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated steps or elements or groups of steps or elements, but do not exclude any other steps or elements or groups of steps or elements. The so-called "consisting of..." means including and limited to the content following the phrase "consisting of...". Therefore, the phrase "consisting of..." indicates that the listed elements are required or mandatory, and no other elements may be present. "Substantially consisting of..." means including any elements listed after the phrase, and is limited to other elements that do not hinder or contribute to the activity or effect specified for the listed elements in the present disclosure. Therefore, the phrase "substantially consisting of..." indicates that the listed elements are required or mandatory, but other elements are optional and may or may not exist, depending on whether they substantially affect the activity or effect of the listed elements. Any element or combination of elements referred to in this specification with open language (e.g., comprises and its derivatives) is considered to be additionally referred to with closed language (e.g., consisting of… and its derivatives) and with partially closed language (e.g., consisting essentially of… and its derivatives).

[0025] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present disclosure that may provide certain benefits under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. In addition, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other claims are not applicable, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0026] In this application, terms such as "a", "an", and "the" are not intended to refer to only a single entity, but include general categories, specific examples of which may be used for illustration. The terms "a", "an", "the", and "the" are used interchangeably with the term "at least one". The phrases "at least one of" and "comprising at least one of" followed by a list refer to any one of the items in the list and any combination of two or more items in the list.

[0027] As used herein, the term "or" is generally used in its ordinary sense including "and / or" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0028] The term "and / or" means one or all of the listed elements, or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0029] In addition, all numerical values ​​are assumed to be modified by the term "about", and in certain embodiments preferably by the term "exactly". As used herein, with respect to a measured amount, the term "about" refers to a deviation in the measured amount that would be expected by a skilled person who takes the measurements with a certain degree of care, commensurate with the goal of the measurement and the precision of the measuring equipment used. In this article, "at most" a number (e.g., at most 50) includes the number (e.g., 50).

[0030] Additionally, herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.) and any subranges (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1 to 4, 1 to 3, 2 to 4, etc.).

[0031] Unless otherwise indicated, as used in this specification and the appended claims, past tense verbs such as "coated" and "oriented" are intended to refer to a structure and are not intended to limit the process used to obtain the structure.

[0032] In order to conveniently distinguish similarly named components, terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. are used. The designation of “first” relative to “second”, for example, does not mean anything additional and is only used to distinguish one component from another similarly named component.

[0033] As used herein, the term "adjacent" with respect to a layer means that there may or may not be intervening layers between the two referred layers.

[0034] As used herein, the phrase "immediately adjacent to" with respect to a layer means that there are no intervening layers.

[0035] As used herein, the term "room temperature" refers to a temperature of 20°C to 25°C.

[0036] As used herein, the phrases "directly bonded" or "bonded to", "connected" refer to two materials that are in direct contact with each other and bonded together.

[0037] As used herein, the phrase "(meth)acrylate" includes both methacrylate and acrylate individually and collectively.

[0038] As used herein, the phrase "pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA)" refers to materials having the following properties: a) a tacky surface, b) the ability to adhere without exceeding finger pressure, c) the ability to adhere without being activated by any energy source, d) sufficient ability to hold onto the intended adherend, and e) sufficient cohesive strength to be cleanly removed from the adherend; these materials typically meet the Dahlquist criterion with a storage modulus of less than 0.3 MPa at 1 Hz and room temperature.

[0039] The terms "in the range" or "within a range" (and similar expressions) include the endpoints of the range.

[0040] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "certain embodiments," or "some embodiments," etc., mean that a particular feature, configuration, composition, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of such phrases in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment in the present disclosure. Furthermore, the particular features, configurations, compositions, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0041] The above overview of the present disclosure is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or each implementation of the present disclosure. The following description illustrates exemplary embodiments in more detail. In several places throughout the present application, guidance is provided by example lists, which can be used in various combinations. In each case, the cited list is only used as a representative group and should not be interpreted as an exclusive list. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific illustrative structures described herein, but should at least be extended to the structures described by the language of the claims and the equivalents of these structures. Any elements cited as alternatives in this specification may be explicitly included in the claims or excluded from the claims in any combination as needed. Although various theories and possible mechanisms may have been discussed herein, such discussions should not be used to limit the subject matter that can be protected by the claims in any case. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a disclosed article is shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a disclosed article according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, the article comprising (relative to Figure 1 The article shown) has an additional primer layer and an additional pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0044] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a disclosed article according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, the article comprising (relative to Figure 2 The article shown in ) two additional release liners.

[0045] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a disclosed article according to an exemplary embodiment is shown, the article comprising (relative to Figure 2 The article shown in ) has two additional skin layers.

[0046] Figure 5A schematic diagram showing a disclosed assembly according to an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprising Figure 2 A mounting tape of an embodiment of the present invention, and a flexographic printing plate.

[0047] Figure 6 A schematic diagram showing a disclosed assembly according to an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprising Figure 2 An embodiment of the mounting belt, and the plate cylinder.

[0048] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing a disclosed assembly according to an exemplary embodiment, the assembly comprising Figure 2 Embodiments of the present invention include mounting tapes, flexographic printing plates and plate cylinders. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The present disclosure provides articles, which may also be referred to as tapes, or even more specifically as mounting tapes. The present disclosure provides adhesive layers (referred to herein as "first adhesive layers" for convenience) for attaching flexographic printing plates. The present disclosure also provides flexographic printing plate mounting tapes incorporating such adhesive layers, assemblies incorporating mounting tapes and flexographic printing plates, cartridges, or both.

[0050] Flexographic printing plate mounting tape is used to mount flexographic printing plates to plate cylinders in flexographic printing presses. The mounted flexographic printing plates may need to be washed between printing runs. The washing process may cause the formation of free "nibs" of separation adhesive from the flexographic printing plate mounting tape. If the free adhesive nibs generated during the plate washing process are deposited on the plate printing surface, they may damage the printing quality by producing spots or flaws in the printed product. The use of the first adhesive layer disclosed herein provides reduced adhesive nib formation during such in-situ plate washing. The flexographic printing plate mounting tape made of the adhesive layer of the present invention provides improved solvent friction resistance, as measured by the more number of strokes before the solvent-soaked adhesive layer of the present invention begins to yield or break under the friction force that causes the initial adhesive deformation. In addition, more importantly, the present invention provides a flexographic printing plate mounting tape made of the primer of the present invention, which prevents the formation of freely separable nibs after solvent soaking and abrasion when tested as described herein. Such freely separable nibs generate failed results in solvent resistance tests.

[0051] In some embodiments, solvent resistance can be described, shown, or both by some type of solvent resistance test. For example, solvent resistance testing can be shown at various levels by not showing any or a significant amount of formed nibs, any or a significant amount of freely detachable nibs, the adhesive surface once rolled up being somewhat or not disturbed at all, or any combination thereof.

[0052] The disclosed article includes at least a foam layer, a first primer layer, and a first pressure sensitive layer. Figure 1 An article 100 is shown, which includes a foam layer 110, a first primer layer 120 and a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. Figure 1 As shown, the first primer layer 120 is generally placed between the foam layer 110 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. Each of the foam layer 110, the first primer layer 120, and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130 also has two opposing surfaces. The foam layer 110 has a first surface 111 and an opposing second surface 112; the first primer layer 120 has a first surface 121 and an opposing second surface 122; and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130 has a first surface 131 and an opposing second surface 132. The first primer layer 120 can therefore be more specifically described as being positioned between the first surface 111 of the foam layer 110 and the second surface 132 of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. The first primer layer 120 can also be described as being adjacent to the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. The first primer layer 120 can also be described as being directly bonded to the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. The first primer layer 120 can also be described as being adjacent to and directly bonded to the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 130. The first adhesive layer 120 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to the foam layer 110. The first adhesive layer 120 may also be described as being directly bonded to the foam layer 110. The first adhesive layer 120 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to and directly bonded to the foam layer 110. Figure 1 Articles such as those shown in can be used as part of a single-sided tape, board mounting system, or can have additional layers added to them so that they can function as a double-sided tape or double-sided mounting tape.

[0053] The disclosed articles may also include other optional components or layers. Figure 2Such an exemplary article 200 is shown. Article 200 includes a foam layer 210, a first primer layer 220, a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 230, wherein the first primer layer 220 is generally positioned between the foam layer 210 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 230. Article 200 also includes a second primer layer 225 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235. The second primer layer 225 is generally positioned between the second surface 212 of the foam layer 210 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235. The second primer layer 225 has a first surface 221 and an opposite second surface 222; and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235 has a first surface 231 and a second surface 232. The second primer layer 225 can also be described as being adjacent to the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235. The second primer layer 225 can also be described as being directly bonded to the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235. The second primer layer 225 can also be described as being adjacent to and directly bonded to the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 235. The second primer layer 225 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to the foam layer 210. The second primer layer 225 may also be described as being directly bonded to the foam layer 210. The second primer layer 225 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to and directly bonded to the foam layer 210. Figure 2 Articles such as those shown in can be used as double-sided tapes or double-sided mounting tapes.

[0054] Other optional components or layers that may be included in the disclosed articles include release liners. Figure 3 Such an exemplary article 300 is shown. The article 300 includes a foam layer 310, a first primer layer 320, and a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 330, wherein the first primer layer 320 is generally positioned between the foam layer 310 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 330; and a second primer layer 325 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 335, wherein the second primer layer 325 is generally positioned between the foam layer 310 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 335. The article of the present disclosure also includes a first release liner 340 and a second release liner 345. The first release liner 340 is generally positioned adjacent to a first surface 331 of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 330. The second release liner 345 is generally positioned adjacent to a second surface 332 of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 335. The release liners are releasably bonded to the pressure-sensitive adhesive layers to which they are adjacent. Such as Figure 3 Articles such as those shown in can be used as double-sided tapes or double-sided mounting tapes.

[0055] Other optional components or layers that may be included in the disclosed articles include skin layers. Figure 4Such an exemplary article 400 is shown. Article 400 includes a foam layer 410, a first primer layer 420, and a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 430, wherein the first primer layer 420 is generally positioned between the foam layer 410 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 430; and a second primer layer 425 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 435, wherein the second primer layer 425 is generally positioned between the foam layer 410 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 435. The article of the present disclosure also includes a first surface layer 450 and a second surface layer 455. The first surface layer 450 is generally positioned between the first surface 411 of the foam layer 410 and the first primer layer 420. The first surface layer 450 can also be described as being adjacent to the foam layer 410. The first surface layer 450 can also be described as being directly bonded to the foam layer 410. The first surface layer 450 can also be described as being adjacent to and directly bonded to the foam layer 410. The second surface layer 455 is generally positioned between the second surface 412 of the foam layer 410 and the second primer layer 425. The second skin layer 455 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to the foam layer 410. The second skin layer 455 may also be described as being directly bonded to the foam layer 410. The second skin layer 455 may also be described as being immediately adjacent to and directly bonded to the foam layer 410. Figure 4 Articles such as those shown in can be used as double-sided tapes or double-sided mounting tapes.

[0056] The present invention provides an assembly which may also be referred to as a flexographic printing press apparatus.

[0057] The disclosed assemblies may include a flexographic printing plate and a mounting tape, such as those disclosed above. Figure 5 Such an exemplary assembly 500 is shown. Assembly 500 includes a flexographic printing plate 560 and a mounting tape 505. Mounting tape 505 may include a foam layer 510, a first primer layer 520, a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 530, wherein the first primer layer 520 is generally positioned between the foam layer 510 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 530. Mounting tape 500 may also include a second primer layer 525 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 535, wherein the second primer layer 525 is generally positioned between the foam layer 510 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 535. A first surface 531 of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 530 is adjacent to (in some embodiments, immediately adjacent to and / or directly bonded to) the flexographic printing plate 560.

[0058] The disclosed assemblies may include a plate drum and mounting straps such as those disclosed above. Figure 6Such an exemplary assembly 600 is shown. Assembly 600 includes a plate barrel 670 and a mounting tape 605. Mounting tape 605 may include a foam layer 610, a first primer layer 620, a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 630, wherein the first primer layer 620 is generally positioned between the foam layer 610 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 630. Mounting tape 605 may also include a second primer layer 625 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 635, wherein the second primer layer 625 is generally positioned between the foam layer 610 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 635. A second surface 632 of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 635 is adjacent to (in some embodiments, immediately adjacent to and / or directly bonded to) the plate barrel 670.

[0059] The disclosed assemblies may also include both a flexographic printing plate and a plate cylinder. Figure 7 Such an exemplary assembly 700 is shown. Assembly 700 includes a flexographic printing plate 760, a plate cylinder 770, and a mounting tape 705. The mounting tape 705 may include a foam layer 710, a first primer layer 720, a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 730, wherein the first primer layer 720 is generally positioned between the foam layer 710 and the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 730. The mounting tape 705 may also include a second primer layer 725 and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 735, wherein the second primer layer 725 is generally positioned between the foam layer 710 and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 735. The first surface 731 of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 730 is adjacent to the flexographic printing plate 760, and the second surface 732 of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 735 is adjacent to (in some embodiments, immediately adjacent to and / or directly bonded to) the plate cylinder 770.

[0060] In some applications of the disclosed flexographic printing plate mounting tape, the flexographic printing plate is adhesively coupled to a plate cylinder of a flexographic printing press (not shown) using the disclosed flexographic printing plate mounting tape. Typically, the flexographic printing plate mounting tape is connected to the flexographic printing plate by a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and to the plate cylinder by a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0061] In some embodiments, the second surface of the foam layer is further bonded to an optional internal adhesive layer, which is further coupled to an optional carrier layer, which is further coupled to a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer. In some embodiments, the first primer layer is disposed between the optional carrier layer and the optional internal adhesive layer. In some embodiments, the second optional primer layer is disposed between the carrier layer and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0062] The disclosed articles and components include a foam layer. The material of the foam layer is generally elastic and can have fast rebound and low compression deformation characteristics, and can be cross-linked. In some embodiments, the foam layer may include any suitable polymer material. In some embodiments, the foam layer includes an olefinic polymer. In some embodiments, the foam layer includes an ethylene polymer, wherein the ethylene polymer may include polyethylene, ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, ethylene acrylic acid copolymer, ethylene methyl acrylate copolymer and ethylene propylene copolymer and a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the foam layer includes an ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. In some embodiments, the foam layer includes a cross-linked ethylene / vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer. In some embodiments, the foam layer includes one or more polymers, the polymer including a thermoplastic elastomer, a block isoprene copolymer, a thermoplastic elastomer block butadiene copolymer, a poly(meth)acrylate polymer, a polyurethane polymer, an olefinic polymer, an ethylene polymer, a polypropylene polymer; a polyester polymer, or a polycarbonate polymer. The foam layer may be foamed by using a chemical blowing agent such as an inert gas, air, or a chemical that decomposes to release a gas when heated; or a physical blowing agent such as expandable microspheres.

[0063] Useful foam layers may have a thickness of at least 200 micrometers (μm), in some embodiments at least 300 micrometers, and in some embodiments at least 400 micrometers. In some embodiments, the foam layer may have a thickness of less than 2500 micrometers, in some less than 2000 micrometers, and in some less than 1500 micrometers.

[0064] The disclosed articles and assemblies include a first pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer, and in some embodiments, a first PSA layer and a second PSA layer.

[0065] In some embodiments, the first PSA may include a polyacrylate polymer. In some embodiments, the first PSA may include a poly(meth)acrylate polymer. In some embodiments, the first PSA may include a tackifying poly(meth)acrylate. In some embodiments, the first PSA includes a poly(meth)acrylate polymer, the poly(meth)acrylate polymer comprising units derived from polar monomers in an amount of 0.1 wt%-15 wt%, in some embodiments 0.5 wt%-15 wt%, and in some embodiments 3 wt%-12 wt%, of the total weight of the polyacrylate polymer, wherein the polar monomer is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, itaconic acid, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-vinyl caprolactam, acrylonitrile, tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, glycidyl acrylate, 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, benzyl acrylate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the first PSA comprises a poly(meth)acrylate polymer comprising units derived from carboxylic acid functional monomers in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 15 wt %, in some embodiments 0.5 wt % to 15.0 wt %, and in some embodiments 3 wt % to 12 wt %, based on the total weight of the poly(meth)acrylate polymer. In some embodiments, the first PSA may comprise a poly(meth)acrylate polymer comprising units derived from acrylic acid monomers in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 15 wt %, in some embodiments 0.5 wt % to 15 wt %, and in some embodiments 3 wt % to 12 wt %, based on the total weight of the poly(meth)acrylate polymer.

[0066] The first PSA may include epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles. The nanoparticles may be any of the inorganic nanoparticles described below. In some embodiments, the epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles include silica. The silica may include fumed silica. The silica may include particles having an average primary particle size of, for example, at least 5 nanometers (nm) or 10 nm; for example, less than 50 nm, 100 nm, or 200 nm; or any combination thereof.

[0067] The relative amount of silica expressed as a % ratio of the total (meth)acrylate PSA polymer content may vary from at least 0.01 wt%, 0.05 wt%, 0.08 wt%, or 0.1 wt%; to less than 2.0 wt%, 6.0 wt%, or 10.0 wt%, or combinations thereof.

[0068] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the functionalized nanoparticles of the present invention provide covalent bonds between the well-anchored nanoparticles present in the PSA layer and the thermoplastic primer layer. More specifically, it is believed that the epoxide ring-opening reaction forms covalent bonds with the part in the thermoplastic adhesive layer, forming substantial covalent bonds that firmly bond the interface. Another advantage of the present invention is that the functionalized nanoparticles do not contribute to the apparent crosslink density of the PSA alone. In other words, when the functionalized nanoparticles enhance the PSA, a wide range of concentrations of epoxide moieties can be used on the nanoparticle surface without significantly affecting the adhesive hardness or crosslink density of the PSA layer itself. Such crosslink density can be measured, for example, by solvent gel expansion or alternatively mechanical testing such as stress relaxation of the PSA layer. A wide range of concentrations of epoxy functionalized units can be used on silica nanoparticles to provide the benefits of improved solvent resistance without adversely affecting other properties, such as easy and predictable removability and resistance to retention, for example, in order to maintain board lifting resistance in board installation applications. Further surprisingly, the adhesive tape of the present invention provides stable bonding and performance in weeks and months (expected to several years), even when the tape is stored in humid conditions and high temperatures. In addition, the adhesive tape of the present invention provides stable bonding in weeks and months (expected to several years) and is easy to remove and retain performance, even when the tape is used in humid conditions and high temperatures to bond and retain the photopolymer plate of the polyester film backing to the printing cylinder. In some cases, it is believed that the nanoparticles of epoxy surface modification formed in situ in the first PSA layer are assisted by the moisture supplied to the PSA layer by using and applying the aqueous first primer layer. The nanoparticles of epoxy surface modification can be prepared according to the teaching of US6899948 B2, and its disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first PSA further comprises a silane, such as an organosilane compound. In some embodiments, the silane can be used to surface modify the silicon dioxide in the PSA. In some embodiments, the silane may preferably comprise an epoxy group. Examples of organosilane compounds containing epoxy groups may include β-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, γ-glycidoxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane, and γ-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane.

[0070] In some embodiments, the ratio of silane to silica particles is preferably selected so that 1 nm 2 The surface area of ​​the silica particles is modified by 0.1 to 5 molecules of an organic silane compound.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first PSA further comprises in situ formed silane surface functionalized silica nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the functionalized silica nanoparticles present in the first PSA layer include surfaces modified with organosilane functionalized with epoxy groups. In some embodiments, the in situ formation of the silane surface functionalized silica nanoparticles comprises a step of coating a waterborne thermoplastic first primer layer on the first PSA layer after the first PSA layer has been formed.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first PSA layer may include a PSA that is a product of anionic polymerization. For anionic polymerization, it is preferred to use an inert solvent as a reaction medium, such as aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons, for example, or aromatic hydrocarbons.

[0073] In some embodiments, the first PSA layer may include a crosslinking agent. For UV crosslinking, it may be useful to add a UV photoinitiator. The photoinitiator may be of Norrish I or Norrish II type. Many groups of photoinitiators may optionally be included, as follows: benzophenone, acetophenone, benzil, benzoin, hydroxyalkyl benzophenone, phenylcyclohexyl ketone, anthraquinone, trimethylbenzoylphosphine oxide, methylthiophenylmorpholinyl ketone, aminoketone, azobenzoin, thioxanthone, hexaarylbisimidazole, triazine or fluorenone, each of which may be further substituted with one or more halogen atoms and / or one or more alkoxy groups and / or one or more amino groups or hydroxyl groups. A representative overview is given by J.-P.Fouassier in Photoinitiation, Photopolymerization and Photocuring, Fundamentals and Applications (Hanser Publishers, Munich, Vienna, New York, 1995). For further details, reference is made to Chemistry & Technology of UV & EB Formulation for Coatings, Inks & Paints, Vol. 5, A. Carroy, C. Decker, JP Dowling, P. Pappas, B. Monroe, edited by PKT Oldring, published by SITA Technology, London, England, 1994.

[0074] When the first PSA layer is applicable from solution, it may be useful to add from 0.05 to 3 wt %, or more preferably 0.1 to 2 wt %, of a crosslinker based on the weight fraction of the monomers in the adhesive.

[0075] Crosslinking agents are usually metal chelates or organic compounds which react with the functional groups of the comonomers and thus directly with the polymers. For thermal crosslinking, peroxides are also suitable. For polymers containing acid groups, it is also possible to use difunctional or polyfunctional isocyanates and difunctional or polyfunctional epoxides.

[0076] Examples of suitable thermal crosslinkers include aluminum(III) acetylacetonate, titanium(IV) acetylacetonate and iron(III) acetylacetonate. However, corresponding zirconium compounds, for example, can also be used for crosslinking. In addition to acetylacetonates, corresponding metal alkoxides, such as titanium(IV) n-butoxide or titanium(IV) isopropoxide, are also suitable.

[0077] Furthermore, for thermal crosslinking it is possible to use polyfunctional isocyanates sold under the trade name “DESMODUR” from Bayer. Other crosslinkers may be difunctional or polyfunctional aziridines, oxazolidines or carbodiimides.

[0078] When crosslinked with actinic radiation, the adhesive material may optionally be blended with a crosslinking agent. Preferred materials that crosslink under radiation include, for example, difunctional or multifunctional acrylates, including difunctional or multifunctional urethane acrylates, or difunctional or multifunctional methacrylates. Simple examples thereof include 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate, pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate or 1,2-ethylene glycol diacrylate. However, it is also possible to use any known difunctional or multifunctional compound that is capable of crosslinking polyacrylates under radiation.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second PSA layer may include the same or similar composition as the first PSA layer. In other embodiments, the second PSA layer may additionally or alternatively include a tackifying rubber. In some embodiments, the second PSA may include a tackifying natural rubber. In some embodiments, the second PSA may include a tackifying synthetic rubber. In some embodiments including multiple PSA layers, all PSA layers have the same composition. In some embodiments including multiple PSA layers, the composition of the PSA layers is different. In various embodiments, the PSA layer includes a cross-linked polymer.

[0080] Useful PSA layers (independently including both first and second pressure-sensitive adhesive layers as disclosed herein) may have a thickness of at least 15 microns, in some embodiments at least 20 microns, and in some embodiments at least 30 microns. In some embodiments, the PSA layer may have a thickness of less than 200 microns, in some less than 100 microns, and in some less than 70 microns. In some embodiments, other adhesive layers (if included in the disclosed articles and assemblies) may be subject to the same thickness limitations.

[0081] The adhesive layers (such as, for example, the first and second pressure-sensitive adhesive layers) may include embossed features in their outer surfaces (not shown). In some such embodiments that also include one or more release liners, the release liner may have an embossed surface facing the adhesive layer that imparts and / or matches the embossed features on the outer surface of the PSA layer.

[0082] The disclosed articles and assemblies include a first primer layer. The first primer layer as specified herein is the primer layer closest to the flexographic printing plate when the article is used with the flexographic printing plate (if more than one primer layer is included). In some embodiments, the first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder. In some embodiments, the first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder and inorganic nanoparticles.

[0083] The first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder of ethylene polymer. In some embodiments, the first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder of ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic polymer binder also includes one or both of wax and resin. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic polymer binder also includes one or both of wax and resin with a softening point lower than 150°C. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic polymer binder component is selected together with any additive (such as wax and resin) to provide the first primer layer with a hot adhesive viscosity within the range of 80°C to 150°C. In some embodiments, the thermoplastic polymer binder accounts for at least 30% by weight of the gross weight of the first primer layer, at least 40% by weight in some, at least 50% by weight in some, at least 70% by weight in some, and at least 90% by weight in some.

[0084] The first primer layer may optionally include inorganic nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles include nano-sized particles. The term "nano-sized" refers to particles characterized by an average particle size (e.g., the average value of the maximum size of the particles, or the average particle size for spherical particles) in the nanometer range of usually no more than 200 nanometers (nm) and preferably no more than 100 nm (before surface modification, i.e., functionalization).

[0085] The average particle size of nanoparticles can be measured using any suitable technique, including, for example, a transmission electron microscope. Preferably, particle size refers to the number average particle size, and is measured using an instrument using a transmission electron microscope or a scanning electron microscope. Another method of measuring particle size is the dynamic light scattering method that measures the weight average particle size. An example of a suitable such instrument is found to be purchased from Beckman Coulter Inc. of Fullerton, CA) N4 PLUS submicron particle analyzer.

[0086] In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles have a size of at least 10 m 2 / g, more preferably at least 20m 2 / g, and even more preferably at least 25m 2 In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles include porous or non-porous features.

[0087] In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles include sols. Preferred sols contain 15% to 50% by weight of colloidal particles dispersed in a fluid medium. In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles include sols in a fluid medium that includes water, aqueous alcohol solution, lower aliphatic alcohols, ethylene glycol, N,N-dimethylacetamide, formamide, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the inorganic nanoparticles include sols in an aqueous medium and optionally one or more alcohols.

[0088] In some embodiments, non-aqueous silica sols (also referred to as silica organosols) can also be used, which are silica sol dispersions in which the liquid phase is an organic solvent or an aqueous organic solvent. Available silica sols include those in which the liquid phase is compatible with an emulsion, and are typically aqueous or aqueous organic solvents. The silica particles can be spherical, typically spherical or needle-shaped. The term "needle-shaped" refers to a generally needle-shaped, elongated shape of a particle and can include other thorny, rod-shaped, chain-shaped, and filamentous shapes. Needle-shaped silica sols can also be prepared as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,597,512 or U.S. Patent No. 5,221,497, for example, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference to the extent that it does not conflict with this specification.

[0089] Useful needle-shaped silica particles are available from Nissan Chemical Industries (Tokyo, Japan) under the trade name SNOWTEX-UP as an aqueous suspension. The mixture consists of 20%-21% (w / w) needle-shaped silica, less than 0.35% (w / w) Na2O and water. The diameter of the particles is about 9 nm to 15 nm, and the length is 40 nm to 300 nm. The viscosity of the suspension is <100 mPas at 25°C, and the pH is about 9 to 10.5 at 20°C, and the specific gravity is about 1.13. Other useful needle-shaped silica particles are available from Nissan Chemical Industries (Nissan Chemical). Industries) under the trade names SNOWTEX-PS-S and SNOWTEX-PS-M as an aqueous suspension having the morphology of a string of pearls. The mixture consists of 20%-21% (w / w) silica, less than 0.2% (w / w) Na2O and water. The diameter of the SNOWTEX-PS-M particles is about 18 nm to 25 nm, and the length is 80 nm to 150 nm. The particle size measured by the dynamic light scattering method is 80 to 150. At 25°C, the viscosity of the suspension is <100 mPas, and the pH at 20°C is about 9 to 10.5, and the specific gravity is about 1.13. SNOWTEX-PS-S has a particle size of 10nm-15nm and a length of 80nm-120nm.

[0090] The first primer layer may also include suitable fillers, including non-functionalized silica particles, such as fumed silica and the like.

[0091] The composition forming the first primer layer can be applied to the pressure-sensitive adhesive on the release liner as a mixture comprising, for example, a heat-sealable polymer. The composition forming the first primer layer can be applied to the carrier as, for example, a solution or suspension in an aqueous solvent. The composition forming the first primer layer can be applied to the carrier by any suitable method, including spraying, coating, brushing, immersion, etc. After application, the composition forming the first primer layer can be heated to evaporate any solvent first, then promote local intermixing of heat and accelerate any crosslinking reaction between the pressure-sensitive adhesive and the inorganic nanoparticles. In some embodiments, heat and pressure can be used to form the first primer layer. Figure 1 The first primer layer is laminated to the foam layer.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first primer layer composition can be applied to the first pressure-sensitive adhesive coated on the release liner and stored for a long time before being applied to the foam layer, without the need for the first primer layer to be rapidly laminated to the foam layer. This feature allows greater flexibility in manufacturing. In addition, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer with the first primer layer and the release liner roller thereon can be stored for a long time and still reliably laminated to the foam layer using heat and pressure.

[0093] The first primer layer may have a thickness of at least 1 micron, at least 3 microns in some embodiments, and at least 5 microns in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the first primer layer may have a thickness of less than 8 microns, less than 12 microns in some, less than 25 microns in some, and less than 50 microns in some.

[0094] The second primer layer may be the same as or different from the first primer layer. The second primer layer may be formed of the same or different components as the first primer layer; the second primer layer may be formed of one or more components in the same or different amounts as the first primer layer; the second primer layer may have different properties from the first primer layer, such as thickness, manufacturing method, etc.; or any combination thereof.

[0095] In some embodiments, one or both surfaces of the foam layer may be in contact with an optional skin layer, which provides a greater planar hardness relative to a foam layer without a skin layer. In some embodiments, the foam layer may have a skin layer on one or both surfaces, which has a lower (or in some cases, substantially no) void volume relative to the average void volume of the interior or body of the foam layer. In some embodiments, one or both skin layers may include a polymer composition that provides an elastically extensible skin layer. In various embodiments, the foam layer with any optional skin layer includes a flexible material that is selected to provide a layer that can be wound around a cylinder with a diameter of 100 cm, and when each face turns toward the surface of the cylinder, there is no layer wrinkling or buckling. In some embodiments, a more inextensible, larger hardness elastic skin layer can be provided on a foam layer surface, and an optional lower hardness extensible skin layer is used on the relative foam layer surface, wherein the layer composition is selected to provide a whole foam layer that can be wound around a 10 cm diameter cylinder and does not cause wrinkles or buckling when the inextensible surface layer is oriented away from the cylinder surface.

[0096] In some embodiments, the optional skin layer may comprise an olefinic polymer, including ethylene vinyl acetate, low and medium density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, etc. Such articles and components may have a skin layer having a thickness of at least 1 μm, 5 μm, or 10 μm; less than 50 μm, 125 μm, or 250 μm; or a combination thereof.

[0097] The composition for forming the first primer layer can be formed using known methods. In some embodiments, the method for forming the first primer layer may include the following steps: a) mixing a functionalized silane and an aqueous silica sol, b) reacting the silane with the surface of the sol to produce a surface-modified silica sol, and c) mixing the surface-modified silica sol with an aqueous polymer dispersion of a thermoplastic polymer.

[0098] A method of making a construction including a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer bonded to a foam layer, such as an article disclosed herein, may include the following steps: a) providing a PSA layer coated on a release liner; b) coating the PSA layer with a primer coating mixture comprising an aqueous polymer dispersion of a thermoplastic polymer and a surface-modified silica sol; c) crosslinking the primer coating mixture to the PSA layer; d) laminating the primer layer to the foam layer at an elevated temperature to firmly bond the primer layer to the foam, and e) optionally crosslinking the primer layer to the foam layer. In some embodiments, steps a)-e) are performed in the order of a), b), c), d), e).

[0099] Some components disclosed herein may include a flexographic printing plate. Useful flexographic printing plates may be any suitable material. In some embodiments, the flexographic printing plate comprises a polymeric material, which in some embodiments is one or more polyesters.

[0100] Some assemblies disclosed herein may include flexographic printing press plate cylinders, which are also referred to herein as plate cylinders. Available plate cylinders may be any suitable material. In some embodiments, the plate cylinder comprises a polymeric material, which is one or more polyurethanes in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the plate cylinder comprises a metallic material, which is steel in some embodiments.

[0101] Exemplary Aspects

[0102] Aspect 1 is an article comprising: a foam layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface; a first primer layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer binder; and a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles, wherein the first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0103] Aspect 2 is the product according to aspect 1, wherein the first primer layer further comprises silicon dioxide.

[0104] Aspect 3 is an article according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, further comprising a second primer layer and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the second primer layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0105] Aspect 4 is the article of any one of aspects 1 to 3, further comprising a first release liner positioned on the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0106] Aspect 5 is the article according to any one of aspects 3 or 4, further comprising a second release liner positioned on the second surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0107] Aspect 6 is an article according to any one of aspects 1 to 5, further comprising a first skin layer positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the first primer layer.

[0108] Aspect 7 is an article according to any one of aspects 2 to 6, further comprising a second skin layer positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second primer layer.

[0109] Aspect 8 is a component comprising a flexographic printing plate; and a mounting tape comprising: a foam layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface; a first primer layer comprising a thermoplastic polymer binder; a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles, wherein the first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is attached to the flexographic printing plate.

[0110] Aspect 9 is a component according to Aspect 8, wherein the mounting tape further comprises a second base glue layer and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposite second surface, wherein the second base glue layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the first surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0111] Aspect 10 is the aspect according to aspect 8 or 9, further comprising a plate tube, wherein the plate tube is attached to the mounting tape via the second surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

[0112] Aspect 11 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a polyacrylate polymer.

[0113] Aspect 12 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a tackified polyacrylate polymer.

[0114] Aspect 13 is an aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a polyacrylate polymer, the polyacrylate polymer comprising units derived from a polar monomer in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 15 wt %, 0.5 wt % to 15 wt %, or 3 wt % to 12 wt % of the total weight of the polyacrylate polymer.

[0115] Aspect 14 is the aspect according to aspect 13, wherein the polar monomer is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, itaconic acid, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-vinylcaprolactam, acrylonitrile, tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, glycidyl acrylate, 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, benzyl acrylate and combinations thereof.

[0116] Aspect 15 is an aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 14, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a polyacrylate polymer, the polyacrylate polymer comprising units derived from a carboxylic acid functional monomer in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 15 wt %, 0.5 wt % to 15 wt %, or 3 wt % to 12 wt % of the total weight of the polyacrylate polymer.

[0117] Aspect 16 is an aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 15, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a polyacrylate polymer, the polyacrylate polymer comprising units derived from acrylic acid monomers in an amount of 0.1 wt % to 15 wt %, 0.5 wt % to 15 wt %, or 3 wt % to 12 wt % of the total weight of the polyacrylate polymer.

[0118] Aspect 17 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 16, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer further comprises silicon dioxide.

[0119] Aspect 18 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 17, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises fumed silica.

[0120] Aspect 19 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 18, wherein the silica particles have an average primary particle size of a thickness of: at least 5 nm, or 10 nm; less than 50 nm, 100 nm or 200 nm; or any combination thereof.

[0121] Aspect 20 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 19, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises a silane.

[0122] Aspect 21 is the aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 20, wherein the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprises an organosilane.

[0123] Aspect 22 is the aspect according to aspect 21, wherein the organosilane comprises an epoxy group.

[0124] Aspect 23 is the aspect according to aspect 22, wherein the organosilane is selected from β-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, γ-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, γ-glycidoxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane and γ-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane.

[0125] Aspect 24 is an aspect according to any one of aspects 21 to 23, wherein the amount of silica relative to the organosilane is such that 1 nm of the silica particle is 2 The surface area of ​​the nanostructured carbon foam is modified by 0.1 to 5 molecules of the organic silane compound.

[0126] Example

[0127] These embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to unduly limit the scope of the appended claims. Although the numerical ranges and parameters showing the broad scope of the present disclosure are approximate values, the numerical values ​​shown in the specific examples are recorded as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains certain errors, and the standard deviation existing in its respective test measurements will inevitably cause such errors. At the very least, and without attempting to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should at least be interpreted based on the reported significant digits and by applying conventional rounding methods.

[0128] Unless otherwise stated, all chemicals used in the examples were obtained from the mentioned suppliers.

[0129] Material

[0130]

[0131]

[0132] Test Method

[0133] Friction resistance test

[0134] The friction resistance was tested according to ASTM D7835 / D7835M-13: "Standard Test Method for Determining the Solvent Resistance of an Organic Coating using a Mechanical Rubbing Machine" with the following modifications. A mechanical finger (barrel diameter 0.625 inch) applying a load of 30 + / - 7 grams with a stroke length of two inches (5.1 centimeters) was covered with four layers of dry cheesecloth.

[0135] The test specimens were prepared as follows: a sample of a double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape construction measuring 1 inch wide by 5 inches long (2.54 cm by 12.7 cm) was adhered to a stainless steel plate measuring 2 inches wide by 6 inches long (5.1 cm by 15.2 cm) by removing the release liner from the supplemental adhesive surface and adhering the sample to the plate, then removing the primary release liner. A solvent combination of 80:20 (v:v) ethanol / ethyl acetate was then dripped onto the exposed adhesive surface in such a way as to completely cover the adhesive surface area to be tested.

[0136] The adhesive surface with solvent is covered with microscope slide then, to prevent solvent evaporation. After one minute, remove slide, and use tissue paper that adhesive surface is blotted, to remove any residual free solvent. Then the test sample plate is firmly maintained to the friction machine platform, and immediately use 15 friction cycles of mechanical fingers to evaluate its friction resistance. One cycle is composed of a complete forward and backward movement at a rate of 15 cycles per minute on the adhesive surface of exposed solvent soaking.

[0137] During the mechanical abrasion treatment, the sample surface was monitored to observe and record the number of stroke cycles during which the adhesive first began to form a worn tip. After 15 abrasion cycles, the test was stopped and the probe and adhesive surfaces were inspected for free adhesive tips. Free tips are those that can be easily moved along the adhesive surface by finger contact or those tips that are detected on the cheesecloth-covered probe after careful inspection, resulting in unqualified abrasion resistance test results. In contrast, tests that result in no tips or tips that remain well attached to the adhesive surface (not detected on the cheesecloth-covered probe) produce passing abrasion resistance results.

[0138] Preparation of primer solution

[0139] The primer solution was prepared by diluting the thermoplastic polymer dispersion with deionized water according to the amounts shown in Table 1 and mixing in a 4 ounce glass bottle. The resulting primer had a Brookfield viscosity of 83 centipoise and a solids content of 30.2 wt%.

[0140] Table 1: Primer solution 1

[0141] Example Thermoplastic polymer dispersion (g*) Deionized water (g) Silica sol (g*) Primer 30.8 30.9 13.2

[0142] *Material weights as listed in the materials chart above, ie, at the stated dilution or solids content.

[0143] Preparation of pressure-sensitive adhesive transfer tape (A)

[0144] Example 1A

[0145] The binder precursor slurry was prepared by mixing 90 parts by weight (pbw) IOA, 10 pbw AA, 33.0×10 - 6 0.04 pbw IOTG and 0.04 pbw photoinitiator were mixed and partially polymerized by exposure to an ultraviolet radiation source having a spectral output of 300 nm-400 nm and a maximum of 351 nm under a nitrogen atmosphere to provide a slurry having a viscosity of about 3 Pa*s (3000 centipoise) and a monomer conversion of about 8%. A 100 gram portion of the slurry was weighed into an 8 ounce glass bottle, and an additional amount of 0.12 grams of triazine, 0.375 grams of HDDA and 0.12 grams of photoinitiator were added to the slurry, followed by weighing 2.67 grams of additional weight of silica, which was then mixed into the slurry with a spatula. The glass bottle was then capped and rolled continuously overnight to evenly disperse the silica and other ingredients in the slurry.

[0146] About 96 hours (4 days) before coating, 0.6 grams of silane 2 was mixed into the slurry. The adhesive slurry was then knife coated onto the embossed side of the release liner and exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a period of 105 seconds by means of a series of lamps having a spectral output of 300 nanometers to 400 nanometers and a maximum of 351 nanometers in a nitrogen-rich atmosphere to provide a total dose of 510 millijoules per square centimeter, as measured using a calibrated NIST radiometer. Thus, an adhesive transfer tape having a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) layer of approximately 0.002 inches (51 microns) thick on the embossed surface of the release liner was obtained. Prior to use, the adhesive transfer tape was stored under ambient conditions.

[0147] Example 2A

[0148] Example 2A was prepared using the same materials and procedures as Example 1A, except that Silane 2 was added in an amount of 0.1 g.

[0149] Comparative Example 1A

[0150] The adhesive slurry was prepared and coated to form an adhesive transfer tape using the procedure and formulation of Example 1A, except that the addition of the Silane 2 component was omitted.

[0151] Comparative Example 2A

[0152] An adhesive slurry was prepared and coated to form an adhesive transfer tape using the procedure and formulation of Example 1A, except that Silane 1 was used instead of Silane 2. Within 2-3 minutes of adding Silane 1, the adhesive slurry quickly became viscous and then gelled and was unsuitable for coating.

[0153] Preparation of Primer-Coated Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive Transfer Tape (B)

[0154] Example 1B, Example 2B and Comparative Example 1B

[0155] A wet layer of the primer solution was applied to the adhesive transfer tapes Example 1A, Example 2A, and Comparative Example 1A using a #18 wire round Meyer rod. The primer coating was dried and cured in a forced air convection oven at 49°C for 120 seconds to give a 8.5 g / m 2 Dry primer coverage.

[0156] Preparation of adhesive-bonded foam laminates (C)

[0157] Example 1C, Example 2C and Comparative Example 1C

[0158] The adhesive transfer tapes of Example 1B, Example 2B and Comparative Example 1B were laminated to the foam layer by passing the two through a heated roller gap, so that the interface between the foam and the primer was bonded (by maintaining the temperature between 126°C and 131°C for more than two 2-second passes through the heated roller gap). The supplementary adhesive transfer tapes of the primer were bonded to the opposite foam surface using the same heated gap treatment. Therefore, the supplementary adhesive transfer tapes of the primer provided a means for bonding the adhesive-bonded foam laminate to a stainless steel plate to complete the friction resistance test of each embodiment. At least 5 days after the preparation of the pressure-sensitive adhesive transfer tapes (B) of the primer-coated embodiment and the comparative example, the solvent resistance test of each was evaluated. For Example 1C, Example 2C and Comparative Example 1C, the number of cycles of visually observing the first deformation of the adhesive surface was recorded as more than 15 cycles, more than 15 cycles and 1 cycle to the first formation of the tip period, respectively. After 15 friction cycles, the test was stopped and the free adhesive tip of the probe and adhesive surface was checked. For Example 1C and Example 2C, the adhesive surface was undisturbed and no nibs were observed (a pass result), whereas for Comparative Example 1C, numerous loose nibs were formed throughout the area contacted by the reciprocating finger (a fail result).

[0159] Prophetic Example 3A, Example 3B and Example 3C

[0160] A glycidoxy surface-modified silica nanoparticle filler in dry powder form may first be prepared according to US6899948 B2 Filler C, except that the A-174 silane may be replaced with a similar amount of Silane 2. Next, Examples 3A, 3B, and 3C may be prepared using the same materials and procedures as Examples 1A, 1B, and 1C above, except that the added silica and Silane 2 may be replaced with 2.67 grams of glycidoxy surface-modified silica nanoparticle filler in dry powder form, and the procedure may be completed such that the filler addition occurs at least 4 days prior to coating.

[0161] A minimum of 5 days after the preparation of the primed pressure sensitive adhesive transfer tape 3B (according to the same procedure as Example 2B), the solvent resistance test can be evaluated. The number of cycles to first deformation of the adhesive surface observed visually can be reported and found to be greater than 12 cycles. After 15 rubbing cycles, the test was stopped, the adhesive surface was inspected and found to be slightly disturbed with some displaced adhesive, but no loose or free nibs on the adhesive surface, or no attachment to the cheesecloth covered finger (which would indicate a passing result), or other conditions.

[0162] All disclosures of the patents, patent documents and publications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each file were cited separately. If there is any conflict or contradiction between the disclosures in this specification as written and any document incorporated by reference herein, the specification as written shall prevail. Various modifications and changes made to the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and substance of the disclosure. It should be understood that the disclosure is not intended to be improperly limited by the exemplary embodiments and embodiments shown herein, and such embodiments and embodiments are presented only by way of example, and the scope of the disclosure is intended to be limited only by the claims shown below herein.

Claims

1. A product, comprising: a foam layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface; a first primer layer, wherein the first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder; as well as a first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized silica nanoparticles, The first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the first primer layer further comprises silicon dioxide.

3. The article of claim 1, further comprising a second primer layer and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, wherein the second primer layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

4. The article of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a first release liner positioned on the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

5. The article of claim 3, further comprising a second release liner positioned on the second surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

6. The article of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a first skin layer positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the first make coat.

7. The article of claim 3, further comprising a second skin layer positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the second make coat.

8. A component, comprising: Flexographic printing plates; as well as A mounting belt, the mounting belt comprising: a foam layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface; a first primer layer, wherein the first primer layer comprises a thermoplastic polymer binder; A first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer comprising a poly(meth)acrylate polymer and epoxy-functionalized silica nanoparticles, wherein the first primer layer is positioned between the first surface of the foam layer and the second surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and wherein the first surface of the first pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is attached to the flexographic printing plate.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the mounting tape further comprises a second primer layer and a second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a first surface and an opposing second surface, wherein the second primer layer is positioned between the second surface of the foam layer and the first surface of the second pressure-sensitive adhesive layer.

10. The assembly of claim 9, further comprising a board tube, wherein the board tube is attached to the mounting tape via a second surface of the second pressure sensitive adhesive layer.

11. The article or component of any one of claims 1 to 3 or 8 to 10, wherein the poly(meth)acrylate polymer is tackified.

12. The article or component of any one of claims 1 to 3 or 8 to 10, wherein the poly(meth)acrylate polymer comprises units derived from polar monomers in an amount of 0.1 wt% to 15 wt% based on the total weight of the polyacrylate polymer.

13. The article or component of claim 12, wherein the polar monomer is selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, itaconic acid, N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-vinyl caprolactam, acrylonitrile, tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate, glycidyl acrylate, 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, benzyl acrylate, and combinations thereof.

14. The article or component of any one of claims 1 to 3 or 8 to 10, wherein the epoxy-functionalized silica nanoparticles comprise silica having an average primary particle size of at least 5 nm, less than 200 nm, or any combination thereof.

15. The article or component of any one of claims 1 to 3 or 8 to 10, wherein the epoxy-functionalized silica nanoparticles comprise fumed silica.

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